Senator Lidia Thorpe has quit The Greens, moving to the crossbench as an independent so she can represent the “grassroots Blak sovereign movement” without dealing with party constraints.
Thorpe, a Djab Wurrung, Gunnai and Gunditjamara woman, made the announcement on Monday, the first parliamentary sitting day of 2023, sending shockwaves through the Greens, who are now down one number in the Senate.
Thorpe’s announcement to split from The Greens had been anticipated for a number of weeks, as debate about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament has become more intense.
“This country has a strong grassroots Blak sovereign movement, full of staunch and committed warriors, and I want to represent that movement fully in this Parliament,” she said on Monday.
“It has become clear to me that I can’t do that from within the Greens.
“Now I will be able to speak freely on all issues from a sovereign perspective without being constrained by portfolios and agreed party positions.
“Greens MPs, members and supporters have told me they want to support the voice. This is at odds with the community of activists who are saying treaty before voice.”
Thorpe has said she will continue to support The Greens’ position on issues relating to climate change, but wants to use her position in parliament to advocate for a treaty first.
Thorpe thanked the Greens leadership team of Adam Bandt and Mehreen Faruqi for being “strong allies” and for their personal support.
“My focus from now is grow and amplify the Blak Sovereign Movement across the nation,” Thorpe said.
Greens leader Adam Bandt has announced that the Greens will officially back the “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum on a Voice to Parliament.
“It’s going to be an important opportunity for the country to take another steps towards First Nations justice,” he told ABC News Breakfast.
“We look forward now to campaigning, supporting the legislation through parliament…this is a significant opportunity for this country.”
Thorpe will remain in parliament as an independent Senator until 2028, when she will face election.