Big Ideas Australia votes — what message should we take from this election result?
May 19, 2025
Judith Brett, a political historian and author of notable works on Australian politics, joins Cathy McGowan, a former Independent MP who shares her unique experiences in Parliament, and Thomas Mayo, an advocate for Indigenous rights and the push for a parliamentary voice for First Nations people. They dive into the implications of the recent Australian election, discussing the rise of community independents and the importance of engagement in democracy. The conversation also touches on resilience in activism and the evolving role of youth and women in shaping Australia’s political landscape.
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Independent Community Campaign Surge
- Cathy McGowan observed 37 communities supported independent candidates in the election, showing active citizen participation.
- Despite few wins, 37,000 volunteers campaigned for change beyond the main party narratives.
Joy in Rejecting Fear Politics
- Thomas Mayo was joyful seeing Peter Dutton rejected due to his negative rhetoric.
- He viewed the election as a rejection of fear-driven politics and attacks on Indigenous rights.
Voter Instability and Major Party Decline
- Judith Brett highlighted the collapse of the Liberal vote and the growing instability in voter loyalty among younger Australians.
- A third of voters chose neither major party, posing challenges for the Labor government.
