Lidia Alma Thorpe, born on August 18, 1973, is an esteemed Australian politician and Victoria’s first Aboriginal senator, known for her unwavering commitment to Indigenous rights. Here’s a glimpse into Lidia’s remarkable life, achievements, and the values she stands for.
Lidia Thorpe’s Early Life & Education:
Lidia, a proud DjabWurrung, Gunnai, and Gunditjmara woman, hails from Carlton, Victoria. Raised by her father, Roy Illingworth, and mother, Marjorie Thorpe, Lidia overcame challenges, becoming a single mother at 17. Despite these obstacles, she pursued education at Swinburne University, earning certificates and diplomas, emerging as a prominent societal figure.
Lidia Thorpe’s Career:
Lidia’s political journey began in 2004 when she joined the Victorian Aboriginal Consultative Committee, advocating for Aboriginal rights. Joining the Victorian Greens in 2010, she became a voice on critical issues. A significant milestone came in 2017, winning the Northcote seat in the Victorian Legislative Assembly, making history as the first Aboriginal woman to do so. In 2020, Lidia assumed the role of Victoria’s first Aboriginal senator, representing the Greens.
However, in 2023, she parted ways with the Greens due to disagreements about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, becoming an independent senator dedicated to representing Victoria.
Advocacy for Indigenous Rights:
Known for her outspoken support for Aboriginal rights, Lidia critiques the government’s treatment of Indigenous Australians. She advocates for a treaty and emphasizes the importance of Black sovereignty, pushing for the creation of an autonomous Aboriginal nation.
Lidia Thorpe’s Social Media:
Connect with Lidia Thorpe on social media:
- Twitter: @SenatorThorpe
- Instagram: @senatorthorpe
- Facebook: Senator Lidia Thorpe
Lidia Thorpe’s Personal Life:
At 50, Lidia, a proud mother of three and grandmother of four, navigates single parenthood with grace. Despite parting ways with her husband, they share custody of their children. Lidia found love in 2019 with Gavan McFadzean, but their relationship ended in 2022.
Lidia Thorpe’s Net Worth:
Lidia Thorpe’s estimated net worth ranges from $1 million to $5 million, considering her senatorial salary of $221,250 per year and other investments. While Lidia hasn’t publicly disclosed her net worth, this estimate is based on available information.
FAQs:
- Why did Lidia Thorpe leave the Greens in 2023? Lidia parted ways with the Greens due to disagreements about the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament, expressing concerns about its representation of Aboriginal people and potential impacts on native title rights.
- What is Lidia Thorpe’s stance on Indigenous rights? Lidia is a strong advocate for a treaty between the government and Aboriginal communities, emphasizing the importance of Black sovereignty. She is vocal about creating an autonomous Aboriginal nation.
- How many children does Lidia Thorpe have? Lidia Thorpe is a proud mother of three children and a grandmother of four as of April 2022.