The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is investigating whether independent senator Lidia Thorpe's statement at a pro-Palestinian rally in Melbourne that she would 'burn down' Parliament House constitutes an offence. Thorpe made the comment on Sunday, saying: 'We stand with you every day, and we will fight every day, and we will turn up every day, and if I have to burn down Parliament House to make a point … I am not there to make friends.'
On Monday, Thorpe clarified that her words were not literal, describing them as 'a metaphor for the pain in our communities and the urgent need to end genocide in Palestine and everywhere'. She condemned the subsequent 'mock outrage', arguing it distracts from Palestinian suffering. 'I have always rejected violence,' she added, stating her commitment to peaceful, democratic means.
The AFP confirmed its National Security Investigations team in Victoria began investigating 'almost immediately'. A spokesperson said the probe would be conducted methodically, aiming to reassure the community that the matter is being handled appropriately. No further details were provided.
The remarks drew condemnation from politicians across the spectrum. Government frontbencher Tanya Plibersek called them 'absolutely irresponsible', while Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke urged a lowering of political temperatures. Liberal senator Maria Kovacic questioned whether Thorpe should remain in parliament, labelling the comments 'disgraceful'. Thorpe was previously censured by the Senate for heckling King Charles during his visit to Parliament House in November.
