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Senator Thorpe's Controversial Comments Ignite Calls for Investigation

10/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe sparked controversy by threatening to burn down Parliament House in Melbourne.
She later said the remark was metaphorical about Indigenous struggles, not a literal threat.
Nationals Leader David Littleproud and One Nation leader Pauline Hanson called for an Australian Federal Police investigation.
Labor ministers criticised the comments and signaled possible disciplinary action in the Senate.

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Story summary

Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe sparked controversy by threatening to burn down Parliament House in Melbourne.
She later said the remark was metaphorical about Indigenous struggles, not a literal threat.
Nationals Leader David Littleproud and One Nation leader Pauline Hanson called for an Australian Federal Police investigation.
Labor ministers criticised the comments and signaled possible disciplinary action in the Senate.