The Australian Federal Police (AFP) are investigating whether independent senator Lidia Thorpe's statement at a pro-Palestinian rally in Melbourne that she would 'burn down' Parliament House breached legislation. Thorpe made the comment on Sunday, saying: '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 a literal threat but 'a metaphor for the pain in our communities and the urgent need to end genocide in Palestine and everywhere'. She condemned the 'mock outrage' that followed, arguing it distracts from Palestinian suffering. 'I have always rejected violence,' she added.
The AFP confirmed its National Security Investigations team in Victoria began investigating 'almost immediately'. A spokesperson stated the investigation would be conducted methodically, noting public concern, and that the AFP aims to reassure the community the matter is being handled appropriately.
Thorpe's comments drew condemnation from politicians across the spectrum. Government frontbencher Tanya Plibersek called them 'absolutely irresponsible', while home affairs minister Tony Burke said now was the time for 'turning the temperature down'. Liberal senator Maria Kovacic described the remarks as 'disgraceful' and questioned whether Thorpe should remain in parliament.
This is not the first time Thorpe has faced censure; she was previously sanctioned by the Senate after heckling King Charles during his visit to Parliament House in November 2022.
