Story perspectives

Labor Set to Retain Power Amid One Nation Challenge

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Polls show Labor, led by Premier Peter Malinauskas, is likely to retain power in the March 21 election.
One Nation, led by former Liberal senator Cory Bernardi, plans to contest all lower-house seats and win upper-house positions.
Liberal critics warn that One Nation's candidates and independent challengers threaten their prospects amid internal instability.
If Labor holds power and One Nation gains seats, the Liberal Party could be weakened next term.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 Australian Federal Election marked a pivotal shift in politics, with John Howard's Liberal Party defeating the Labor government led by Paul Keating. Winning 52% of the popular vote, the Coalition gained 94 seats, ending 13 years of Labor rule. Today, Premier Peter Malinauskas's Labor faces challenges from emerging parties, reflecting ongoing electoral dynamics that disrupt traditional power structures.

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Story summary

Polls show Labor, led by Premier Peter Malinauskas, is likely to retain power in the March 21 election.
One Nation, led by former Liberal senator Cory Bernardi, plans to contest all lower-house seats and win upper-house positions.
Liberal critics warn that One Nation's candidates and independent challengers threaten their prospects amid internal instability.
If Labor holds power and One Nation gains seats, the Liberal Party could be weakened next term.

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