A year after the federal election, Pauline Hanson's One Nation has successfully tapped into voter discontent with her brand of right-wing populism, surging in the polls at the expense of the Coalition and Labor. Meanwhile, support for the other anti-establishment party, the Australian Greens, has flatlined, according to recent polling.
Why Voters Are Turning Right
Political reporter Sarah Basford-Canales, speaking on the Full Story podcast, noted that voters tired of the major parties are increasingly moving to the right rather than the left. “There's a sense that the Greens are not connecting with the same level of frustration that Hanson is capturing,” she said. Polling data shows One Nation's primary vote has risen to around 10% in some states, while the Greens have stagnated at about 11% nationally, similar to their 2022 election result.
Internal Party Concerns
Inside the party, there is growing concern about the Greens' inability to broaden their appeal beyond inner-city progressive bases. “We need to talk about cost of living and housing in a way that resonates with working-class voters,” one party insider said. Analysts point to the Greens' focus on climate and social justice issues as potentially alienating voters more concerned with immediate economic pressures.
Strategies for the Next Election
To improve their chances at the next election, the Greens are considering a sharper focus on economic inequality and housing affordability. “We have to show that our policies can deliver tangible benefits to people struggling with rent and mortgages,” a senior strategist said. The party is also looking to strengthen its grassroots campaigning in regional areas, where One Nation has made inroads.
Polling and Public Perception
According to a recent Resolve Strategic poll, the Greens' primary vote has not increased significantly since the 2022 election, while One Nation has gained ground. “The Greens are seen as a party for the educated elite, not for the battler,” said pollster Jim Reed. This perception has hindered their ability to capture the anti-establishment vote.
Path Forward
As the next federal election approaches, the Greens face a critical choice: double down on their progressive platform or pivot to more populist economic messaging. “If we can't convince voters that we're on their side on the issues that matter most, we'll continue to lose ground to Hanson,” a party official warned. The outcome will determine whether the Greens can break out of their electoral plateau.
