The Australian Federal Police has confirmed it is formally investigating controversial comments made by Senator Lidia Thorpe during a public speech where she declared she would "burn down Parliament House."
The independent senator made the inflammatory remarks while addressing supporters at a rally in Melbourne, sparking immediate condemnation from political figures across the spectrum.
Political Firestorm Erupts
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the criticism, labelling Thorpe's comments as "completely unacceptable" regardless of political context. Government ministers and opposition leaders united in their condemnation of the rhetoric.
"There is no place in Australian democracy for language that promotes or glorifies violence against our democratic institutions," Albanese stated during a press conference.
Thorpe's Defence and Context
Senator Thorpe later attempted to clarify her comments, insisting they were meant metaphorically to describe "burning down the system" of oppression rather than advocating physical violence.
In a social media post following the controversy, Thorpe defended her position, writing: "When we talk about burning down institutions, we're talking about dismantling systems of colonial oppression that continue to harm First Nations people."
Security Implications
The AFP confirmed it had received multiple complaints about the comments and was treating the matter with "appropriate seriousness." Security experts have noted that such rhetoric comes at a sensitive time for parliamentary security.
This incident follows heightened global concern about political violence and follows recent security upgrades to Australian parliamentary precincts.
Historical Precedent
This isn't the first time Thorpe's rhetoric has drawn police attention. The senator has previously faced criticism for comments about government institutions, though this represents the most significant escalation to date.
The investigation comes as Australia continues to debate the boundaries of political speech and the protection of democratic institutions.
