One Nation Party’s Rising Support Sparks Concern

Australia’s One Nation party, once considered a fringe political force, has recently seen a surge in poll support, at one point exceeding the backing of the traditional opposition Liberal Party. Latest results show the party’s primary vote reaching around 27%, far higher than the Liberal Party’s approximate 15% within the coalition.

Led by veteran Senator Pauline Hanson, One Nation has been steadily expanding its base. Hanson publicly stated that the party is prepared to play a core role in federal politics, exploring the possibility of serving as the opposition or potentially forming government in the future. She emphasized that nothing can stop the party from becoming the opposition and is actively seeking to win more voter support.

The party’s surge is closely tied to its policy positions. Hanson has focused on limiting immigration, strengthening border control, and criticizing current immigration systems, arguing they exacerbate housing, healthcare, and employment pressures—resonating with voters concerned about affordability and living costs. The party also supports nuclear energy development, extending existing coal plant lifespans, and building domestic gas reserves, while opposing Australia’s carbon reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement, aiming to attract voters alienated by current energy and climate policies.

Political figures, activists, and multicultural advocates criticize the party for using fear and divisive issues to manipulate voter sentiment, undermining social cohesion. Senate government leader and Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for national unity and emphasized Australia’s multicultural makeup, rejecting hate and division. Many Liberal and National Party members remain wary of One Nation’s rise, concerned about losing right-wing core votes and prompting internal coalition policy and leadership discussions. While cooperation on some issues may be possible, mainstream conservative parties remain skeptical of One Nation’s ability to govern stably.