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Populists make a play in Australia’s fragmented political landscape
By Jack Dikian
Not even a stunt orchestrated by activist group GetUp! could derail One Nation leader Pauline Hanson’s first appearance at the National Press Club in 30 years.
While Hanson’s 1996 maiden speech was a blunt declaration of an angry political outsider, calling for an end to immigration, multiculturalism and what she characterised as Indigenous privilege, her recent address did little to lend credence to the notion that she has developed a fresh political vision.
"Political discourse is now conducted in real time, accelerated by social media, the internet and, increasingly, artificial intelligence. This has placed politicians under unprecedented pressure to respond instantly while contributing to the erosion of public trust."
Jack Dikian
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