King Charles III of the United Kingdom was heckled by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe during a speech in Parliament House in Canberra, Australia. Thorpe shouted, “you’re not my king” and accused the monarch of committing genocide against Indigenous people and stealing their land. Thorpe continued to demand the return of Indigenous remains and land as security officers escorted her outside. Thorpe stated that they will resist the colonial rule until a peacemaking treaty is established with the Indigenous people.
The visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla to Australia comes as the country debates severing ties with the British monarchy. Australia, which was under British colonial rule for over a century, has a history of over 400 massacres against Indigenous peoples. The Indigenous population in Australia continues to face racism and discrimination.
While there is ongoing debate about Australia becoming a republic, a referendum held last year did not recognize Aboriginal people in the constitution. The current Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has stated that holding another referendum on the subject is not a priority. Thorpe, who is known for her opposition to the monarchy, has also called for breaking ties with the British monarchy.
During his visit, King Charles III acknowledged the traditional owners of the land and the First Nations people of Australia in his speech. He will also travel to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. Overall, the visit has highlighted ongoing tensions regarding the monarchy and Indigenous rights in Australia.
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