Threats against politicians, high office holders reaches record levels

Threats against federal politicians have soared to record levels, sparking fears they could lead to “real world harm” as tensions flare over Australia Day and the war between Israel and Gaza.

Threats of violence against federal politicians have soared to record levels, with one Victorian MP warning the alarming trend could lead to “real world harm”.

Almost three reports a day are being made to the Australian Federal Police about incidents involving MPs, the Prime Minister, Governor-General and electorate offices.

Outspoken Victorian Senator Lidia Thorpe, who was forced into hiding following death threats before last year’s referendum, is calling on “powerful white men” to stop making the problem worse with “sexist and racist language” in the parliament.

The Blak activist, who fronts Invasion Day rallies, says harassment has already increased in the lead up to January 26.

Victorian Senator Lidia Thorpe. Picture: Martin Ollman

New figures obtained by the Herald Sun reveal more than 420 reports were made in the first six months of 2023-24 amid the Voice to Parliament referendum and the war between Israel and Gaza.

The worrying reports are on track to surpass the record 709 incidents in 22-23, and to 555 in 2021-22.

Threatening and anonymous correspondence to politicians, government employees and diplomats also skyrocketed 150 per cent to 230 incidents last year, compared to 2022.

An AFP spokeswoman said it took all reports regarding the safety and security of High Office Holders, federal parliamentarians and people who work with them seriously.

“Threats of harm or violence against High Office Holders, federal parliamentarians is a criminal offence and will be investigated by the AFP,” she said.

Senator James Paterson says the increase in threats is alarming. Picture: Martin Ollman

Opposition homes affairs spokesman Senator James Paterson said the increase in threats to public officials, their families and staff was on an alarming trajectory.

“If these trends continue I fear we will see it translate into real world harm,” Senator Paterson said.

“That will end up with a permanent security bubble around our politicians like they have in many other countries.

“If that happens then we’ll lose something great about our democracy – the accessibility of our leaders in the community.”

The gruesome murder of British MP David Amess in 2021 prompted the AFP to review politicians safety.

Senator Thorpe, who last year spent five months away from her home after severe threats were made against her, said she and her staff continued to be harassed but had implemented AFP advice to better manage the risks.

She said the rise in incidents was concerning and made it harder for politicians to fulfil their duties in the community.

“Everyone should be able to be safe to do their job,” she said.

Senator Thorpe said cultural issues towards women, particularly those of colour in politics, meant they faced the most harassment and threatening behaviour.

“As a politician, you’ve got to be prepared to cop criticism, but what we see from political opponents too often crosses the line and that’s making the problem worse,” she said.

“I want to see our leaders set a better standard, particularly powerful white men.”

Senator Thorpe said in the lead up to January 26, harassers were “egged on by politicians like Peter Dutton, who seek to create anger and division every year at this time to try to score cheap political points”.