Pauline Hanson's 'primitive race' comments on Indigenous Australians draw widespread condemnation

Indigenous Affairs Minister Malarndirri McCarthy, a Yanyuwa and Garrwa woman, described Hanson's remarks as "totally outrageous" and instructed the senator to apologize to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander constituents she represents. McCarthy highlighted the rich history and cultural significance of First Nations peoples across Australia.

Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who led the Indigenous voice to parliament's no campaign, expressed disappointment, stating that Hanson's comments demonstrated "wilful ignorance" and had "dragged the conversation into appalling territory." Price asserted that Hanson's question, "What the hell have they done in this country?" reveals a complete failure to understand Australia's First Peoples.

Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe stated that most Australians know Hanson's comments are "simply false." Thorpe countered that First Peoples have cared for the continent for thousands of generations, developing sophisticated systems of lore, knowledge, agriculture, science, and art. She accused Hanson of being interested only in division and warned that she would continue to spread "nasty, poorly informed and harmful ideas." Thorpe suggested the federal government could address racism in its digital duty of care plan.

Hanson, 72, has a history of making controversial statements about Indigenous Australians. She claimed in the podcast that she had asked Price to join One Nation before the 2025 federal election, suggesting Price was a "better fit" with her party than the Liberals. Hanson responded to the criticism on social media, stating, "The media is in a tailspin again today about comments made a year ago on this podcast. Have a look. You be the judge."