One Nation intensifies campaign as Pauline Hanson targets WA seats

Australian right‑wing party One Nation, led by Senator Pauline Hanson, is ramping up its campaign ahead of the next federal election. Hanson’s recent trip to Perth focused on challenging Labor strongholds in the Brand and Cowan electorates, announcing a new hard‑line vetting process for candidates and claiming a fundraising haul of more than $2 million. Labor MPs accused the party of offering “anger but no answers” and warned its proposals – such as capping immigration to family reunions and major project work permits and opposing wage increases – would hurt the Western Australian economy, particularly the critical minerals sector.

The surge in One Nation’s core support has drawn attention from other right‑wing figures. Mining magnates Clive Palmer and Gina Rinehart have linked their fortunes to the party’s anti‑immigration stance, with Palmer’s United Australia Party also promoting zero immigration and positioning itself as a rival to Hanson’s hard‑right platform. Analysts note the growing voter frustration with major parties, but question whether One Nation can translate its rising poll numbers into electoral success.