Pauline Hanson's One Nation party has seen its support in Queensland rise to equal that of the Labor party [1].
This shift represents a significant realignment in the state's political landscape. The surge suggests a growing erosion of the traditional base for the governing Labor party, led by Steven Miles [1].
According to Newspoll data released this week, One Nation has reached a level of support not seen since the party's breakthrough in 1998 [1], [2]. In some specific measures of voter preference, the party has even surpassed the support levels currently held by Labor [3].
The data indicates that the party is successfully expanding its reach beyond its historical strongholds. Newspoll findings show that One Nation is gaining popularity among women and young Australians [3].
This demographic shift is particularly challenging for the Miles-led government, as these groups have historically provided stable support for Labor. The rise of One Nation suggests a volatility in voter loyalty that could impact future electoral outcomes in the region [1], [2].
Political analysts said that the party's current trajectory mirrors the volatility of the late 1990s. By matching the support of a major party, One Nation has positioned itself as a primary competitor for the Queensland electorate [1], [3].
“One Nation has reached a level of support not seen since the party's breakthrough in 1998”
The parity between One Nation and Labor indicates a potential collapse of the traditional center-left coalition in Queensland. By attracting younger voters and women, One Nation is no longer relying solely on a narrow regional base, which could force the Labor government to pivot its policy positions to prevent further losses of its core constituency.
