One Nation Wins First-Ever Lower House Seat in Australian Election

Australia’s One Nation party has won its first-ever lower-house seat. The result is being seen as an important test for the right-wing populist party. David Farley is the winning candidate.

A Historic Win for One Nation

With most ballots counted, Farley secured an unassailable 60% of the primary vote. The contest took place in Farrer, a vast regional constituency in New South Wales. The independent candidate, Michelle Milthorpe, is far behind.

The Contest Happened

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Sussan Ley. She quit after being ousted as leader of the opposition Liberal Party. The result will not affect the Labor government’s large majority. However, it is a clear sign that voters are moving away from traditional parties.

“We’re Going Through the Ceiling”

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson called the win a victory for all of Australia. She said the party was “coming after those other seats”. Farley, who has a background in agribusiness, told supporters: “We’ve reached the end of our beginning. We’re going through the ceiling.”
He added: “We’re like a mason, with a chisel and a hammer. We’re re-carving the letters into Australian democracy.”