South Australia Election 2026: Labor Wins Second Term, One Nation Gains Seats

South Australia's Labor Party won a second term in the March 2026 election, increasing their majority. One Nation also saw a big rise in votes, gaining at least one seat.
By Newsroom | Politics, Australia |

PREMIER MALINAUSKAS SECURES SECOND TERM AMIDST LABOR LANDSLIDE

Peter Malinauskas and the Labor Party have cemented their hold on South Australia, securing a second term in government with a significant victory in the recent state election. The premier, speaking after the results, stressed the volatility of political representation, stating that no seat is truly safe. Labor’s triumph saw them pick up several seats in metropolitan Adelaide previously held by the Liberals, widening their majority in the 47-seat lower house. Projections indicate Labor could expand its seat count from 29 to between 34 and 35.

South Australian premier holds on to seat - 1

ONE NATION'S SURGE PRESENTS NEW DYNAMIC

Simultaneously, the election witnessed a substantial surge in support for One Nation, which captured the attention of approximately one in five voters statewide. While Labor celebrated their decisive win, the rise of One Nation is poised to reshape the state's political discourse. The party has secured at least one lower house seat, with indications of a strong showing in regional electorates like Hammond. One Nation’s performance marks a significant shift, attracting votes previously held by the Liberal Party, with claims of success being echoed by party figures.

Read More: Trump's mixed messages on Iran war and DHS funding freeze in Washington

South Australian premier holds on to seat - 2

REGIONAL BATTLES AND LIBERAL LOSSES

The election saw the Liberal Party endure a considerable setback, with their vote collapsing across the state. As counting progressed, the Liberals were confirmed to hold four seats, grappling with what sources are calling 'sobering lessons' from the defeat. One Nation candidates remained competitive in key regional seats, with the party showing strength in electorates such as Stuart and Light. The rural electorate of Hammond, east of Adelaide, saw One Nation in a leading position in a two-candidate count against Labor.

South Australian premier holds on to seat - 3

ONE NATION EYES GREATER INFLUENCE

Despite the overarching Labor victory, One Nation is positioning itself for a more significant role, eyeing the 'balance of power' in the state's upper house. Figures indicate the party has secured representation in the upper house, with Cory Bernardi and Carlos Quaremba identified as state leaders. The success in South Australia could signal a potential trend, with comparisons drawn to upcoming elections in Victoria where One Nation is polling around 20 per cent. The outcome of postal votes and preference distributions are anticipated to be crucial in finalizing the seat counts.

Read More: Kylie Minogue Earns $3 Million for Private Show at Anthony Pratt's Melbourne Gala

South Australian premier holds on to seat - 4

BACKGROUND

The South Australian state election, held in March 2026, resulted in the Labor Party, led by Premier Peter Malinauskas, retaining government for a second term. The election was characterized by a significant Labor majority and a notable increase in the vote share for One Nation. The Liberal Party experienced a substantial decline in support, leading to the loss of several seats. One Nation's performance was particularly impactful in regional areas, and the party expressed ambitions for greater influence in the state's legislative chambers. Premier Malinauskas's comments highlighted a perceived lack of electoral security for all parties.

Read More: 2015 Larijani Kissinger Meeting Gains Attention Amidst Middle East Changes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who won the South Australia election in March 2026?
The Labor Party, led by Premier Peter Malinauskas, won the election and will serve a second term. They increased their majority in the state's parliament.
Q: How did One Nation perform in the South Australia election?
One Nation saw a large increase in support, getting about one in five votes across the state. They have secured at least one seat in the lower house and are aiming for more influence.
Q: What happened to the Liberal Party in the South Australia election?
The Liberal Party had a significant loss in the election, with their vote share dropping. They are confirmed to hold only four seats in the lower house.
Q: Which areas were important in the South Australia election?
Labor gained seats in metropolitan Adelaide. One Nation showed strength in regional areas like Hammond, Stuart, and Light, and is looking to gain power in the upper house.