Independent Australian senator and Indigenous activist Lidia Thorpe stirred significant controversy during King Charles’ visit to Australia’s Parliament House, accusing the British monarch of genocide. Thorpe’s outburst occurred after King Charles, who was making his first major foreign appearance since a cancer diagnosis, acknowledged the traditional landowners in his speech. Thorpe interrupted, demanding the return of land and calling for a treaty.
Her passionate protest included accusations of genocide and theft of Indigenous people and culture, declaring, “This is not your land, you are not my King,” before being removed by security. Thorpe is a well-known critic of Australia’s colonial history and an advocate for Indigenous rights.
Despite the disruption, King Charles appeared unfazed, continuing his conversation with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Albanese, in turn, praised the King’s long-standing climate change advocacy during the visit.
While the protest drew attention, the royal couple’s visit was otherwise well-received, with positive responses from dignitaries and the public. Their trip also included a visit to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, where they were warmly greeted by over a thousand supporters. After Canberra, the royal tour is set to continue in Sydney before concluding with a Commonwealth meeting in Samoa.
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