The political landscape in Australia is undergoing a fascinating transformation, with the rise of One Nation and the shifting allegiances of conservative voters. This 'family feud' among Australian conservatives has sparked intriguing questions about the nature of right-wing populism and its relationship with neoliberalism.
The Rise of One Nation: A Conservative Shift
One Nation, a party that has gained momentum in recent polls, is attracting senior members from the Liberal and National parties. This migration of conservatives suggests a deeper ideological shift. As Allan Patience, an honorary fellow at the University of Melbourne, argues, the surge in inequality and economic insecurity has led voters to seek alternatives, and One Nation seems to be filling that void.
Neoliberalism's Role: A Complex Relationship
The relationship between neoliberalism and the rise of right-wing populism is complex. While some analysts, like Patience, attribute the populist right's success to the failures of neoliberal policies, others argue that certain factions of the populist New Right have embraced neoliberal doctrines. Quinn Slobodian, in his book 'Hayek's Bastards,' suggests that the populist right has emerged within neoliberalism, not in opposition to it, advocating for privatization, deregulation, and tax cuts, which are staples of neoliberal ideology.
Think Tanks and the Populist Shift
The support One Nation is receiving from free market think tanks is particularly intriguing. Organizations like the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) and the Centre for Independent Studies (CIS), which have historically promoted neoliberal policies and high immigration, are now aligning themselves with One Nation's platform. This shift raises questions about the think tanks' motivations and the nature of their support for One Nation. Are they genuinely embracing a new ideological direction, or is this a strategic move to maintain influence in a changing political landscape?
A Family Feud or a New Alliance?
The 'family feud' analogy used to describe the conservative divide is thought-provoking. It suggests that the populist right, despite its criticism of mainstream center-right parties, shares a common ideological heritage. Benjamin Harnwell, a speaker at the Advance lobby group conference, made this connection explicit, claiming that right-wing populist movements are the true inheritors of Thatcherism. This idea of a 'family feud' within the conservative movement adds a layer of complexity to the political dynamics at play.
The Future of Australian Conservatism
As we look ahead to the next federal election, the question remains: Will the conservative 'family feud' be resolved, or will it continue to shape Australian politics? The shifting allegiances and ideological repositioning of conservative voters and think tanks suggest that the traditional political landscape is evolving. The rise of One Nation and the potential for a new conservative alliance could have significant implications for Australia's political future.
In my opinion, this political shift is a fascinating development, revealing the complex interplay between ideology, policy, and voter sentiment. It raises important questions about the role of think tanks, the nature of populism, and the future of conservative politics in Australia.
