National

Ex-Greens senator takes up spot on cross bench

By AAP Newswire

Feb 7, 2023

Greens senators watch as Lidia Thorpe takes her place — Senator Lidia Thorpe has taken her place on the cross bench opposite her former Greens party. -AAP Image

Ex-Greens senator Lidia Thorpe has taken up her spot on the Senate cross bench after suddenly quitting the party.

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The Indigenous senator left the minor party after differences on the voice to parliament couldn't be reconciled.

Taking her new seat for the first time Tuesday, Senator Thorpe quickly acknowledged her move and asked to be added to a committee in a 30-second speech.

She was embraced by fellow independent David Pocock and spoke with Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, Greens senators Janet Rice and Larissa Waters and United Australia Party senator Ralph Babet.

Greens leader Adam Bandt said he wished Senator Thorpe had stayed in the party but respected her decision.

She said being an independent enabled her to more freely speak her mind on Indigenous issues.

Senator Thorpe's exit brings the number of Greens in the Senate down to 11.

The government will now need two cross benchers alongside the Greens, who hold the balance of power, to pass legislation.