Newsroom edition: why a hung parliament may be good for Australia
Apr 24, 2025
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Lenore Taylor, Editor of Guardian Australia, and Mike Ticher, Head of newsroom at Guardian Australia, dive into the shifting political landscape in Australia. They discuss why the rise of minor parties and independents may lead to a more productive parliament. The guests highlight the lack of bold ideas from major parties and explore the potential for progressive policies if a hung parliament emerges. They also touch on the engagement of independents with critical issues like climate change, emphasizing the drive for renewed political accountability.
The shift towards supporting minor parties reflects voter dissatisfaction with major parties, indicating a desire for substantive political change.
A minority government may enhance productivity in parliament by fostering collaboration among diverse parties, potentially leading to significant reforms.
Deep dives
Increasing Support for Minor Parties
Polling indicates a growing trend among Australian voters towards supporting minor parties, with around one-third expected to vote for alternatives to the major parties. This shift points to a dissatisfaction with traditional party offerings, as many voters seek substantial changes and different political approaches, particularly evident in urban areas with teal independents and green candidates gaining ground. The success of independents like Cathy McGowan, who held her seat since 2013, reflects a desire for diverse political representation, which challenges the dominance of Labor and the Coalition. This trend suggests that voters are signaling a need for plurality in political discourse, which could reshape the landscape of Australian politics for the future.
Dull Election Campaigns Have Their Merits
The current election campaign has been described as uninspiring, characterized by routine press conferences dominated by repetitive policy discussions and a lack of visionary proposals. However, a less exciting campaign could be viewed positively as it avoids the chaos seen in other countries, such as the emergence of extreme political factions. This environment allows for cautious policymaking, though many express disappointment at the minimal scope of proposed solutions, particularly for pressing social issues. A lack of dynamism in the campaign could lead to a disappointing voter experience, fueling the draw towards minor parties that promise greater change.
Potential of a Minority Government
A minority government in Australia might not be as chaotic as historically perceived, as it could foster a more productive political environment with a diverse crossbench advocating for significant reforms. The potential for progressive minor parties to influence a Labor-led minority government might direct focus towards crucial topics like climate change and inequality, as voters express a desire for more substantial government action. Instances from past minority governments highlight how collaboration with independents can result in meaningful policy achievements, demonstrating that these arrangements can act as a check on major party interests. Overall, a well-structured minority government could unlock a new dynamic in Australian politics, encouraging responsiveness to the electorate's demands.
With the election campaign sputtering to the finish line, much of the coverage has concentrated on the two major parties, and most of their policy offerings have focused on the cost of living. Critics have pointed to the lack of substance and bold policy offerings from both Labor and the Coalition. But polls show about a third of voters are expected to vote for an independent candidate or one from a minor party, with a minority government looking like a distinct possibility. Bridie Jabour talks to editor Lenore Taylor and head of newsroom Mike Ticher about why the trend away from the major parties may make the parliament more productive
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