Full Breakdown
Pauline Hanson’s “primitive” remarks spark nationwide condemnation
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Controversial comments on Indigenous history
The comments were made in a September 2025 interview on the Jamie J podcast, where Hanson questioned the value of teaching Indigenous culture and claimed there was “nothing there” besides a few rock paintings. The remarks have prompted calls for an apology and possible Senate action.
Background & Context
Debates over the inclusion of Indigenous history and language in Australian school curricula have intensified in recent years. Hanson’s statements entered the public arena amid broader discussions about how Australian history should be taught, with many Indigenous leaders urging a curriculum that reflects the nation’s full heritage.
Official Statements & Responses
Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy called the remarks “totally outrageous and completely racist,” urging Hanson to apologise. Shadow Indigenous Affairs Minister Julian Leeser described the comments as an attack on a core part of Australia’s identity. Greens leader Larissa Waters called the remarks “vile” and said they whitewash 60,000 years of history. Nationals leader Matt Canavan warned that censuring Hanson could turn her into a martyr and boost her poll numbers.
Criticism & Opposition
A broad coalition of Indigenous leaders and politicians condemned the remarks. Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Northern Territory senator, called Hanson’s comments “wilful ignorance.” Independent Victorian senator Lidia Thorpe said the statements were false and harmful, highlighting generations of Indigenous knowledge and stewardship. Labor senator Jana Stewart, the youngest Aboriginal woman in federal parliament, said the rhetoric repeats One Nation’s long-standing attempts to define Indigenous peoples. Indigenous author and activist Thomas Mayo affirmed that Indigenous Australians have built sophisticated systems of law, governance and land management over tens of thousands of years.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I do think the curriculum needs to reflect our whole history but Pauline Hanson went low to unfair, unnecessary and unacceptable insult.” — Jacinta Nampijinpa Price
- “We have survived invasion, dispossession and every attempt to erase us. We are still here and will always remain in the rich tapestry of Australian identity.” — Thomas Mayo
- “Our mob know exactly who we are, and One Nation does not get to define us,” — Jana Stewart
- “I think it's only for someone who doesn't know anything about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture who can call it primitive,” — Ms Plibersek, social services minister
What’s Next
Indigenous leaders have asked the Senate to consider formal consequences for Hanson, and the issue is expected to feature in upcoming parliamentary discussions on education policy and multiculturalism.