Polls, the media and what's really driving One Nation’s support

The rise of Pauline Hanson's One Nation has shattered the traditional political playbook, creating a crisis of identity and strategy across Australia's major parties. Polls showing One Nation outpolling both Labor and the coalition have triggered a self-perpetuating media cycle where coverage fuels perception, which in turn drives further support—despite no clear evidence that this surge translates into actual votes or donations. The Liberal Party is paralyzed, with leadership changes failing to stem the bleeding, while internal divisions flare over whether to pursue preference deals or seat carve-ups with One Nation. Tony Abbott’s controversial comments reignite fears of a right-wing realignment, while shadow cabinet member Andrew Hastie’s attacks on Hanson’s Trump allegiance backfire. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shifts from mockery to solemn appeals for national unity, warning that One Nation’s success threatens the very foundation of mainstream democracy. Labor, though not facing existential risk, is now forced to defend its credibility against a party that offers no policy solutions but capitalizes on voter disillusionment. The episode reveals a political system unraveling under the weight of polarization, where media narratives, polling, and fear of irrelevance are reshaping the future of Australian politics.