David Farley of Pauline Hanson's One Nation has secured the party's first-ever seat in the federal House of Representatives, winning the Farrer by-election. This victory marks a significant moment for the party, which has been actively seeking to expand its reach beyond Queensland and into the federal political arena.
The win in the sprawling southern NSW electorate of Farrer, previously held by the Coalition for 77 years, saw Farley comfortably secure more than 57 percent of the two-candidate-preferred vote, defeating independent Michelle Milthorpe. The result has reverberated through the major parties, with Liberal figures acknowledging the need for substantial change.
"The people of Farrer have spoken and that the Liberal Party respects the decision." - Angus Taylor, Opposition Leader
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson expressed triumph, labeling the major parties as "arrogant" and signalling intent to pursue further seats. "We’re coming after those other seats," Hanson declared, indicating a strategic push to capitalize on this success. This follows a period of sustained growth for One Nation, with recent polling showing a rise in its vote at the expense of the Coalition, and earlier electoral breakthroughs in South Australia.
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Political Landscape Shifts
The Farrer by-election outcome follows a pattern of One Nation's rising popularity. Reports from earlier this year and last year indicated a widening appeal for the party, often attributed to exploiting economic grievances and voter dissatisfaction with the established political order. Analysts have noted the party's ability to "capitalise on a realignment going on in Australia."
While One Nation has a long history on the political fringes, recent years have seen its influence grow, leading to discussions about its potential to become a more viable party of government. However, some observers suggest that resistance from non-One Nation voters might temper its immediate prospects of becoming a dominant force.
Major Parties' Response
The fallout from the Farrer by-election has prompted introspection within the Liberal Party. Sussan Ley, a Liberal figure, stated that the party needs to "change or die" and acknowledged that the Liberal Party "hasn't been good enough." Opposition Leader Angus Taylor conceded the Coalition's campaign had been "tough" and that the Liberals would take "hard lessons" from the result. The Nationals' candidate also congratulated Farley, pledging to hold him to account.
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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has previously suggested that improving voters' lives is the most effective strategy to counter right-wing populism and parties like One Nation. His government, now in its second term, has focused on policy delivery, including changes to childcare subsidies.
Background
One Nation, co-founded by Pauline Hanson, has been a fixture in Australian politics for approximately 30 years. Historically, the party has been known for its right-wing populist platform, often characterized by anti-immigration rhetoric and a focus on national identity. While its influence has fluctuated over the decades, recent political shifts and voter sentiment appear to have created a more fertile ground for its message. The party has faced internal challenges, including expulsions of members, and has also been censured in the Senate. Despite criticism and controversy surrounding some of its stances, Hanson has expressed no regrets regarding her career or its impact.
Read More: One Nation Wins First Lower House Seat in Farrer By-Election
