Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has strongly rebuked One Nation leader Pauline Hanson for defending a controversial billboard that depicts the premier with AI-generated imagery of a witch. The truck-mounted billboard, which has been circulating in Melbourne for weeks, features a black pointed hat and the phrase 'ditch the witch'. Allan stated that Hanson 'chooses to barrack for the bullies' while she herself will always fight against such misogynistic attacks.
Billboard Condemned by Prominent Figures
The billboard has drawn widespread condemnation, including from former Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who was also targeted with similar language during her tenure. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson also voiced their disapproval. Allan expressed gratitude for Gillard's support, saying, 'It made my heart sing to see Julia’s response.'
Hanson's Controversial Remarks
On Monday, Hanson told Sky News that she had been called a witch 'long before' Allan and advised the premier to 'suck it up, sweetheart'. Later, she doubled down, suggesting that the billboard was justified given Victoria's crime rates, debt, and corruption allegations. 'Probably stronger words might be used for her, but they feel the sooner she’s gone, the better,' Hanson said. 'Jacinta – if the shoe fits, then wear it.'
Allan's Response
At a press conference on Tuesday, Allan dismissed the comments, emphasizing that the billboard uses 'language and visual imagery that speaks to centuries old sexism against women'. She reiterated her commitment to calling out sexist and hateful behavior, regardless of political pressure. 'I don’t have a problem if people have a different view – that’s democracy – but what is wrong is when difference is weaponised in a sexist, misogynist, hateful way,' she said.
Leadership Speculation Quashed
Allan also addressed rumors of a potential leadership spill, describing them as 'navel gazing' by anonymous sources while Victorians are focused on cost-of-living pressures. 'I am absolutely determined to see this through, because when the going gets tough, the tough get going,' she stated. She acknowledged that a recent Freshwater Strategy poll showed Labor's primary vote at 23%, behind the Coalition's 27% and One Nation's 25%, but insisted that she is 'all in' for the challenge.
Poll Highlights
The poll, published by the Herald Sun, also revealed that Allan's personal popularity has dropped to a net favourability rating of minus 37 points, well behind Wilson's positive 15 points. Additionally, 62% of respondents believe Allan should be replaced as Labor leader before the next election. Allan noted that One Nation is 'cannibalising' votes from both the Liberal and National parties, as well as taking a slice of Labor's support. She stressed the need to listen to Victorians and take action to address their concerns.
