Historic Court Hearing in Melbourne
Historic proceedings are set to unfold at the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal on 3rd June 2026, where Krauatatungalung Elder Djuran Bunjileenee Uncle Robbie Thorpe will seek to charge King Charles III for the genocide of Aboriginal people. This case marks a significant moment in the ongoing fight for indigenous rights and justice.
Beginning with a smoking ceremony and public statement at 10:00 am outside the court, the event is scheduled to take place at 459 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Kulin Nation. At 10:45 am, the court hearing will commence, bringing to light significant issues of colonial history and modern legal accountability.
Genocide-related proceedings concerning the treatment of Aboriginal people under colonial and Crown authority are at the core of this appeal. Uncle Robbie Thorpe's case challenges the ongoing acts of genocide, examines the application of international genocide law in Australia, and questions whether Crown representatives can face prosecution.
International Accountability and Sovereignty
As a long-time Aboriginal rights advocate, Uncle Robbie Thorpe emphasises that this case is part of a continuous campaign for justice and international accountability. He asserts, "Genocide is a crime, not just globally, but right here in our backyard."
The proceedings raise critical questions about the inability and unwillingness of Australian courts to properly address genocide and the sovereignty of unceded Aboriginal land. Uncle Robbie Thorpe, who has been involved in similar litigation and sovereignty campaigns for decades, continues to challenge colonial legal structures in Australia.
Public interest remains high as the court proceedings will be live-streamed, allowing global viewership of this pivotal case. It challenges both local and international legal norms, drawing attention to the urgent need for change.
Following decades of activism, Uncle Robbie Thorpe, through these proceedings, hopes to bring about a significant shift in how genocide and indigenous sovereignty are addressed within Australia and internationally.
