Canberra: On 28 July 2025, A steadfast advocate for the Tibetan cause, Dr. Sophie Scamps, Independent Member of Parliament for Mackellar in Sydney, delivered a heartfelt address in the Australian Parliament, commemorating the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
In her speech, Dr. Scamps underscored the profound significance of this milestone, particularly in light of His Holiness’s recent announcement affirming the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution beyond his lifetime.
“I am extremely proud that Mackellar on the Northern Beaches of Sydney is home to the largest community of Tibetan Australians in the country. We are so fortunate to be enriched by this wonderful community,” said Dr. Scamps.
She described the 90th birthday as an occasion of great joy and spiritual importance for Tibetans in exile and around the world. “This year’s celebration holds even greater significance following His Holiness’s affirmation that the spiritual institution of the Dalai Lama will continue after his passing. This is the news that millions—Tibetan and non-Tibetan alike—have been hoping to hear for many years. His Holiness has long been a beacon of hope and compassion in our world,” she stated.
Dr. Scamps also reflected on two recent events she attended to mark the milestone. The first was a vibrant, day-long celebration of traditional Tibetan culture held in her electorate of Mackellar. The second was a formal dinner at the New South Wales Parliament House, where the Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration was the guest of honour.
“These events were particularly significant because such celebrations are not possible inside Tibet,” she noted, emphasising the importance of cultural freedom and expression for the Tibetan diaspora.
Dr. Scamps also recalled her 2023 visit to Dharamsala as part of an Australian parliamentary delegation. During the visit, she met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration, further strengthening her commitment to the Tibetan cause.
Her remarks in Parliament stand as a strong message of solidarity and support for the Tibetan people and their enduring struggle for cultural and religious freedom.
Report filed by Tibet Information Office, Canberra
