Lidia Thorpe: A Trailblazer for Indigenous Rights in Australia

Lidia Alma Thorpe (51 years) Victoria’s first Aboriginal senator, having served since 2020. She was a member of the Australian Greens until February 2023, when she left the party due to disagreements about the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament and then became a key player in the “progressive no” campaign for the voice vote in October 2023. She also served as the Green Party’s deputy leader in the Senate from June to October 2022.

Quick Facts of Lidia Thorpe

Full Name Lidia Thorpe
Date of Birth 2nd February 1973
Age 51 years old
Birthplace Melbourne, Australia
Nationality Australian
Ethnicity Aboriginal Australian
Education Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies from Deakin University
Political Party Australian Greens
Position Senator for Victoria
Years Active 2017 – present
Mother Marjorie Thorpe
Basic Salary $233,600 per year
Committee Chair Salary $25,696 per year
Net Worth Estimated: $2 million
Personal Life Divorced; has children
Social Media Instagram: @lidiathorpe
Twitter: @lidiathorpe
Facebook: @SenatorThorpe
YouTube: @lidiathorpe6893
Key Issues Indigenous rights, climate change, social justice
Public Image Known for her passionate speeches and activism
Controversies Has faced criticism and scrutiny over various statements and actions related to Indigenous issues and her political stance

Early Life and Education of Lidia

Lidia Thorpe (51 years) was born on February 2, 1973, in Victoria, Australia. She was growing up in a family deeply connected to Aboriginal culture. Her education was shaped by these experiences, fostering a strong sense of identity and purpose.

Her family has a rich ancestry to Indigenous communities, which instilled in her the values of resilience and activism. She attended local schools, later pursuing studies that allowed her to engage with community issues effectively. Thorpe’s educational journey was a foundation for her lifelong commitment to advocating for the rights of Indigenous people.

Political Career of Australian Senator, Lidia Thorpe

She started her serious political life when she entered the Victorian Parliament in 2017, and with determination and commitment, Lidia became an Independent Senator for Victoria in 2020.

Thorpe has focused on pivoting issues that affect Indigenous Australians and makes her a formidable presence in the Senate.

Major Policies and Advocacy

Thorpe has been vocal about key policies in the interest of Indigenous rights, including:

  • Indigenous Voice: Lidia has been one of the forerunners to bring an Indigenous voice into Parliament, representing and being consulted on their representation.
  • Environmental Justice: She strongly views land and natural resources as important to protect, where sustainable practices need to respect Indigenous knowledge.

Her policies have raised a debate on why and how the present state of Aboriginal rights needs more recognition by reform.

Controversies of Lidia Thorpe

Lidia Thorpe is a senator in Australia for Victoria. She is known for her intense activism regarding Indigenous rights. On one occasion, she disrupted the parliamentary ceremony in honor of King Charles III and Queen Camilla with shouting, “Give us our land back, and you are not my king.” The protest underlined her calls for a treaty with Australia’s Aboriginal peoples and decried the colonial legacy of the British monarchy​.

This has included contro­versy, such as when Thorpe referred to Queen Elizabeth II as “the colonising Her Majesty” in her oath of office. On many occasions, her challenging style has dared mainstream politics to think through sovereignty and justice for Indigenous Australians​.

Lidia Thorpe king charles III
Australian Independent Senator Lidia shouted to King Charles III “‘You are not my king”, Photo Via: Big World Tale

Personal Life (Family and Relationships)

Lidia is a proud mother, often sharing her experiences as a single parent while navigating her political career. Her family plays a crucial role in her life and activism.

Partner and Children: Lidia Thorpe was born in 1973 into a family steeped in the struggle for Aboriginal rights. Her grandmother Alma Thorpe was a cofounder of the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service and a founding member of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy. Lidia’s mother, Marjorie Thorpe, was a co-commissioner with the Stolen Generations inquiry and worked as a committee member in reconciliation.

Lidia Thorpe's Family Photo
Family photo of Australian Senator Lidia Thorpe, Photo Source: facebook

She has 3 children and 4 grandchildren. Her sister Meriki Onus is one of the founders of the Warriors of Aboriginal Resistance, which is committed to the Aboriginal sovereignty movement. Her uncle Robbie Thorpe is a leading activist in self-determination for Aboriginal Australians.

Lidia was once married to an alcoholic, and her ex-husband has corroborated her version of events on their difficult marriage. She was in a relationship with Gavan McFadzean, a manager at the Australian Conservation Foundation from 2019 until 2022. She remains on good terms with fellow senators Malcolm Roberts and Matt Canavan despite ideological differences.

Cultural Identity and Heritage

Being of Aboriginal descent is a significant part of Lidia’s identity. She draws strength from her heritage, which influences her advocacy for Indigenous rights.

Aboriginality: Lidia emphasizes the importance of cultural identity, sharing her story to inspire others and foster understanding.

Media Presence and Public Perception

Lidia Thorpe has actively engaged with various media outlets to amplify her message. Her candid interviews and public statements have made her a recognizable figure.

Interview with Waleed Aly: In a notable interview, she discussed her motivations and vision for a more inclusive Australia, resonating with many Australians seeking change.

Lidia thorpe Interveiw with Waleed Aly.

Thorpe’s bold approach to politics has garnered both support and criticism. Despite the challenges, she remains a source of inspiration for many, symbolizing strength and determination.

How much is the Salary and Net Worth of Australian Senate Lidia Thorpe?

As an Independent Senator, Lidia Thorpe’s salary reflects her position. While exact figures may vary, estimates suggest that her earnings align with typical salaries for Australian senators. Lidia Thorpe has a base salary of an estimated $233,600 as part of the Australian Senate.

As the chair of a select committee, we expect her to earn an estimated $25,696. This price is commensurate with the demands and expectations placed on her as a prominent political figure in Australia. Like many Members of Parliament and senators, her situation will allow her to claim a raft of entitlements and allowances that can supplement her take-home income.

While specific details about her net worth remain private, it’s seems she has more than $2 million net worth. Lidia has managed her finances prudently, focusing on her political and advocacy work rather than personal wealth accumulation. Her commitment lies in making a difference rather than financial gain.

Aboriginal Australian independent politician, Lidia Thorpe could have around $2 million networth, Photo Via: facbook

Achievements and Recognition

Lidia Thorpe has received numerous accolades for her work. Altghough she has played a critical role in shaping legislation that impacts Indigenous Ausgtralian communities. Her advocacy efforts have not gone unnoticed and uncare. She is knowing for various organizations dedicated to social justice and Indigenous rights.

Thorpe is actively involved in projects that promote awareness and education around Indigenous issues. Her dedication to these causes ensures that the conversation around Aboriginal rights continues to grow.

Social Media Accounts

Lidia’s presence on platforms like Twitter and Instagram where she posted her daily activities and updates. She has joined the twitter in 2017, and now she has 52.5k followers. As well as she has more than 73K followers in her instagram. We can get her updates, news and photos from facebook and youtube too.

Conclusion

Lidia Thorpe is not just a senator; she is an icon to many Australians, especially to the Indigenous communities. Her story typifies how big the power of standing up for one’s self and perseverance could be. And for that alone, Lidia Thorpe will always inspire each and every one of us to stand up to justice and equality in this political world.

FAQs

What is the age of Lidia Thorpe?

Lidia Thorpe was born on February 2, 1973, which now, making her 51 years old.

Who is Lidia Thorpe’s partner?

Lidia keeps her personal relationships private, focusing on her role as a public figure. We just know that she was married with an alcoholic person and seperated already.

What is Lidia Thorpe’s ethnicity?

Lidia Thorpe is of Aboriginal descent, specifically Gunditjmara and Tasmanian Aboriginal.

What are some of Lidia Thorpe’s achievements?

Thorpe has made significant contributions to Australian politics and advocated for Indigenous rights.