The 2025 Australian Federal election is drawing closer, and voters across the country are weighing up their options. Two of the most pressing concerns for many Australians are the rising cost of living and the urgent need for action on climate change. As parties begin to sharpen their focus and present their platforms, it's crucial for voters to look closely at what each party stands for on these vital issues.
Pauline Hanson's One Nation party has been a recurring presence in the Australian political landscape since its founding in 1997. Often described as right-wing to far-right, with an ideology rooted in Australian nationalism and populism, the party presents itself as standing for Australia and Australian values against "global agendas". But how do their stated positions and history align with the concerns of voters focused on their hip pocket and the environment? Let's take a closer look, drawing on the information from the sources.
Climate Change: A Stance of Skepticism and Opposition
For voters who see climate change as a critical issue requiring urgent action, One Nation's stance might present a significant hurdle. The sources indicate that One Nation senators are frequent critics of any action on climate change. The party outright denies the existence of climate change, refers to climate science as a "scam," and has promoted debunked conspiracy theories claiming climate change isn't happening or is part of a UN plot. One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts, for instance, has been linked to challenging the scientific consensus on climate change.
Their key policies directly reflect this skepticism. One Nation opposes net-zero targets and renewable energy subsidies. Instead, they propose that "climate research needs to continue, but after thirty years..." implying a questioning of established findings. Explicitly, the party wants Australia to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accords and abolish the Department of Climate Change.
Furthermore, groups identified as having thematic alignment with One Nation, such as Advance, have been criticised for sharing known disinformation, including false claims about renewable energy infrastructure like offshore wind farms. This aligns with One Nation's general skepticism towards such initiatives.
For a voter prioritising climate action, supporting a party that denies the science, opposes targets and subsidies, and seeks to dismantle government bodies dedicated to addressing the issue would logically be seen as counterproductive to their goals.
Cost of Living: Mixed Measures and Controversial Proposals
Addressing the cost of living is a major concern for many Australians heading into the 2025 election. One Nation does present policies aimed at tackling this issue. They offer "Comprehensive Cost of Living Measures", though detailed information in the sources is somewhat limited. Specific proposals include a $90 billion Budget Savings Plan to cut government spending and a GST moratorium on building materials intended to reduce housing costs. These are presented as ways to ease financial pressure on households.
However, other economic policies advocated by One Nation could raise concerns for voters. The party champions economic protectionism. They propose reviewing and potentially revoking free trade agreements, reintroducing import tariffs, and opposing foreign ownership of Australian assets like agricultural land and businesses. While these policies are presented as prioritising Australian jobs and interests, protectionist measures can sometimes lead to increased costs for consumers due to reduced competition and higher prices for imported goods.
A particularly notable concern for some voters, especially those connected to disability services, is Pauline Hanson's statement in March 2025 that One Nation wants to cut funding for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This proposal would have a direct and potentially significant impact on the cost of living for NDIS participants and their families.
Questions have also been raised about the party's funding and influences. The Al Jazeera investigation, for instance, asserted that One Nation sought financial assistance from Koch Industries, a large conglomerate linked to conservative advocacy. Critics argue that soliciting funds from powerful, wealthy sources like this, or noting that groups like Advance receive significant funding from the rich, could appear to contradict One Nation's "anti-establishment" positioning and might raise questions about whose interests the party truly represents when discussing economic policies impacting the cost of living for everyday Australians.
Beyond the Core Issues: Other Factors to Consider
While cost of living and climate change are key concerns, voters may also consider other aspects of a party's platform and history. One Nation is generally described as right-wing to far-right and has been listed as a hate group by the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (GPAHE) due to its track record on anti-multiculturalism, white nationalism, and conspiracy theories.
The party has a history of widespread criticism for its anti-immigration and anti-Muslim rhetoric. They strongly oppose mass immigration and multicultural policies and advocated strongly against the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum in 2023, referring to it on their website as a "divisive and racist campaign".
Controversies have also surrounded the party regarding attempts to seek funding from foreign entities, including media investigations into seeking money from pro-gun groups like the NRA in the US. The party has also faced numerous internal divisions and candidate issues throughout its history.
Some analyses suggest that the contemporary version of One Nation, at least as of 2017, may not have extensive detailed policy beyond a general "anti-establishment stance".
Making an Informed Choice for 2025
For Australian voters heading to the polls in 2025, particularly those deeply concerned about the trajectory of climate change and the pressures of the cost of living, understanding a party's core positions and history is essential.
One Nation presents a clear position on climate change that fundamentally opposes action and denies the scientific consensus. On the cost of living, they propose some direct relief measures but also advocate for protectionist policies and have suggested cuts to essential services like the NDIS, alongside facing scrutiny over potential influences from wealthy donors. When viewed alongside their broader history and platform, including criticisms regarding anti-immigration rhetoric and controversial associations, voters have a complex picture to consider.
With the 2025 Federal election approaching, it is crucial for voters to examine the stated policies and track records of all parties. Look beyond the slogans and consider whether a party's proposed solutions genuinely align with your priorities for a sustainable environment and a secure financial future. Research the alternatives, compare policies rigorously, and make your vote count based on an informed understanding of what each party truly represents.
If action on climate change is important to you, then this is a handy tool to help you decide: https://voteclimateone.org.au/federal-election-2025/
