Perth: Attack

Opened the debate

Thorpe moved the motion to condemn the attempted bombing in Boorloo, Perth, describing it as a deliberate act of hate targeting First Peoples on a day of mourning. Thorpe argued that the incident represented a serious escalation of racial violence and criticised the lack of immediate national attention and condemnation from the Prime Minister and media. The motion called for the Parliament to acknowledge the harm caused, express solidarity with victims, and commit to urgent action against racism and discrimination directed at First Peoples. Thorpe emphasised that the silence surrounding the event sent a message that First Nations lives were not valued.

Government response

McCarthy condemned the attack as a sickening incident that threatened social cohesion and expressed pride in the Prime Minister's response. McCarthy noted that the device was an improvised explosive with high destructive potential and that the Western Australia Joint Counter Terrorism Team was investigating it as a potential terrorist act. McCarthy highlighted recent legislation targeting acts of hatred and affirmed the government's commitment to protecting First Nations Australians and all citizens from violence. McCarthy extended condolences to those affected and stated that the government would not be silent in the face of such threats.

Opposition response

Liddle condemned the attempted bombing and affirmed that violence against Indigenous Australians is unacceptable and an attack on all Australians. Liddle opposed the motion's inclusion of paragraphs linking the attack to debates about Australia Day, arguing that this politicised an ongoing investigation. Liddle moved an amendment to replace references to First Peoples in the final clause with all Australians, stating that violence impacts everyone and should not be singled out by race. Liddle argued that the focus should remain on safety, accountability, and peaceful civic engagement rather than reigniting political disputes.