The Australian Labor Party has strongly condemned independent Senator Lidia Thorpe after she threatened to “burn down Parliament House” while addressing a pro-Palestine rally in Melbourne on Sunday. The controversial remarks sparked immediate backlash across the political spectrum and reignited debates over the limits of political protest in Australia.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek described Thorpe’s words as “absolutely irresponsible,” emphasizing the need to “turn down the temperature at home” while the world watches a fragile ceasefire unfold in Gaza. Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Amanda Rishworth also criticised the remarks, warning that “comments that inflame violence and hatred are inappropriate,” even in the context of legitimate protest.
During the rally, Thorpe drew parallels between the struggles of Palestinians and those of Indigenous Australians, declaring: “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.” The statement was met with cheers from the audience, intensifying concerns among lawmakers.
Deputy Opposition Leader Ted O’Brien said the comments were “completely inappropriate” and inconsistent with a “time for hope and peace, not hatred protest,” referencing the imminent release of remaining Israeli hostages from the 2023 October attacks. Liberal Senator Jane Hume further accused Labor of treating Thorpe’s threats as a “crazy relative at a Christmas party,” rather than taking them seriously as a violation of parliamentary respect and workplace safety.
With over 2,000 staff working daily in Parliament House, questions of security and accountability are now at the forefront. Both Labor and Coalition parties face pressure to respond decisively while balancing freedom of expression and public safety in Australia.
