Cory Bernardi’s decision to leave the Liberal party and stand as an independent candidate has thrown a light on the right-wing of Australian politics. Some, such as Bernardi, have been criticised by Malcolm Turnbull, others, such as One Nation, are taking a lead. “We are on the same lines with a lot of the policies and issues,” Pauline Hanson said about Bernardi. “It will split the conservative vote but I’ll put my policies there and hopefully [people will support them].”
Karen Middleton reports on the government’s real dilemma: how to re-engage with, or at least not further alienate, disaffected voters who are deserting the major parties in droves.
Plus: Paul Bongiorno on the names being put forward as possible replacements for Malcolm Turnbull, and Martin McKenzie-Murray on the government’s duplicity over family violence.
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