During King Charles’ official visit to Australia, a dramatic moment unfolded in Parliament when Australian Senator Lidia Thorpe interrupted his speech by shouting, “You’re not my king!” Thorpe, a long-time advocate for Indigenous rights and a treaty between Australia and its First Nations people, also called out claims of “genocide” and demanded reparations for colonial injustices. The outburst, which occurred as Charles addressed the Australian Parliament, has intensified debates about the monarchy’s role in Australia, where republican movements have gained momentum in recent years.

The Incident and Its Implications

On October 21, 2024, King Charles III, alongside Queen Camilla, visited Australia and delivered a speech in Parliament, where he acknowledged and praised the First Nations people. However, moments after his speech concluded, Senator Lidia Thorpe shouted from the back of the chamber, expressing her discontent with the monarchy’s continued role in Australian politics. As she was escorted out by security, Thorpe continued to assert that Australia was not Charles’ land and rejected his claim to authority.

Thorpe’s outburst was not an isolated incident. She has long been a vocal advocate for Indigenous Australians and has actively campaigned for a treaty between Australia and its First Nations people. During her heckle, she demanded reparations and acknowledgment of the harm caused by colonialism. Her remarks included calls for the return of Aboriginal remains and recognition of past atrocities committed against Indigenous communities.

Australia’s Growing Republican Sentiment

The incident highlights the growing republican sentiment in Australia. For years, debates over whether the nation should sever ties with the British monarchy have persisted. According to recent polls, support for an Australian republic has fluctuated, with 33% of Australians favoring a republic in recent surveys. While King Charles remains the head of state, many Australians, including political figures like Thorpe, believe it is time for the country to break free from its colonial past.

Republican movements have gained traction in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in 2022, and while King Charles has expressed indifference to the possibility of Australia transitioning into a republic, the conversation remains active. The Australian Republic Movement (ARM) has called for a referendum on the issue, arguing that it is time for Australia to have an independent head of state.

Reactions to Thorpe’s Protest

King Charles was reportedly unfazed by the protest, continuing his tour of Australia without addressing the incident directly. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace reiterated the monarch’s appreciation for the warm reception from the public during his visit, stating that Charles and Camilla were “deeply grateful” for the support they had received across the country.

However, the protest sparked widespread discussion on social media, with opinions sharply divided. Supporters of Thorpe praised her for standing up for Indigenous rights, while critics accused her of disrespecting a head of state. Thorpe’s protest highlights the continued tension between Australia’s Indigenous population and the British Crown, with many calling for meaningful reconciliation and reparations.

Thorpe’s outburst is a reminder that the debate over the monarchy’s place in Australia is far from settled. As the country moves forward, questions about its future governance structure and its relationship with Indigenous communities will remain central to its political discourse.

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