Lidia Thorpe Suspended from Senate After Heated Outburst and Controversial Actions
November 27, 2024
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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Sources

The Guardian • Nov 27, 2024
Lidia Thorpe suspended from Senate after appearing to throw paper at Pauline Hanson during tense debate
The Guardian • Nov 28, 2024
Lidia Thorpe calls Senate suspension a ‘disciplinary colonial action’ she wears as a ‘badge of honour’
The Sydney Morning Herald • Nov 28, 2024
The Senate is a circus and this senator is its clowning glory
The West Australian • Nov 27, 2024
Lidia Thorpe barred from parliament