Lidia Thorpe Suspended from Senate After Heated Outburst and Controversial Actions

November 27, 2024
Lidia Thorpe Suspended from Senate After Heated Outburst and Controversial Actions
  • Greens senator Larissa Waters acknowledged Thorpe's inappropriate behavior but argued that the suspension was not a proportionate response, pointing to issues of institutionalized racism.

  • Thorpe has been a vocal critic of the Labor government's efforts to enshrine an Indigenous voice in the constitution, believing it will not bring meaningful change for First Nations people.

  • Known for her outspoken nature and advocacy for Indigenous rights, Thorpe's actions continue to spark discussions about decorum and behavior in the Senate.

  • Lidia Thorpe, the independent Indigenous senator for Victoria, was suspended from the Senate on November 28, 2024, following a controversial outburst during a debate on racism.

  • The incident that led to her suspension involved Thorpe throwing papers at One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and displaying an obscene gesture as she exited the chamber.

  • Despite her suspension, Thorpe continued to interject from the press gallery and participated in a rally outside parliament advocating for a bill on genocide laws.

  • Hanson expressed satisfaction with Thorpe's suspension, citing ongoing aggressive behavior directed at her and other senators since Thorpe's entry into the Senate.

  • Senator Wong emphasized the need for respectful behavior in parliamentary debates, highlighting the importance of understanding different perspectives.

  • This suspension follows a history of disruptive behavior by Thorpe, including a censure for her protests against King Charles during his visit to Australia in October 2023.

  • The suspension was initiated by Government Senate leader Penny Wong and is effective until the end of the last scheduled Senate sitting day of the year.

  • The Senate voted 46-11 to suspend Thorpe, with only the Greens opposing the motion, while Labor, the Coalition, and other parties supported it.

  • Thorpe's attempt to support fellow senator Fatima Payman backfired, overshadowing Payman's impactful speech and redirecting focus to Thorpe's antics.

Summary based on 5 sources


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