GetUp Advises Campaigners Against Pauline Hanson's Character Attacks in Victoria Election

Strategic Shift in Campaign Approach

GetUp, a progressive advocacy group, is urging its volunteers to avoid personal attacks on One Nation leader Pauline Hanson ahead of the Victorian state election. The group acknowledges Hanson’s controversial ties to mining magnate Gina Rinehart but emphasizes that such associations should not dominate campaign messaging. Instead, GetUp recommends focusing on policy differences to counter Hanson’s party in the upcoming vote.

The strategy reflects a calculated effort to address Hanson’s polarizing public image without amplifying divisive rhetoric. GetUp’s guidance comes amid heightened tensions in Victoria’s political landscape, where One Nation seeks to expand its influence beyond Queensland. Hanson, who founded her party in 1997, has long positioned herself as a nationalist figure, advocating for strict immigration policies and economic protectionism. Critics, including GetUp, argue her stance risks alienating multicultural communities. However, the group’s internal advice signals a shift toward substantive engagement rather than smear campaigns.

GetUp’s directive to volunteers underscores a broader trend in political organizing, where negative messaging is increasingly seen as counterproductive. The group’s spokesperson stated that „attacking Pauline Hanson’s character distracts from the real issues Victorians face, like housing affordability and healthcare.” Instead, GetUp plans to highlight One Nation’s record on climate policy and workers’ rights, areas where Hanson’s party has faced criticism.

The Role of Gina Rinehart’s Influence

Data from previous elections suggests that personal attacks on Hanson have historically backfired, galvanizing her base rather than swaying undecided voters. In 2017, for instance, One Nation’s primary vote increased despite widespread condemnation of Hanson’s remarks on Indigenous Australians. GetUp’s approach aims to preempt such backlash by steering conversations toward tangible policy contrasts.

While GetUp acknowledges Hanson’s financial ties to Rinehart—a prominent mining billionaire—as a potential vulnerability, the group advises against centering campaigns on this connection. Hanson’s links to Rinehart have fueled speculation about foreign influence, particularly given Rinehart’s international business interests. However, GetUp’s materials frame these ties as secondary to One Nation’s broader ideological stance.

Political analysts note that Hanson’s alignment with conservative economic interests complicates efforts to paint her party as extremist. „Her brand thrives on being the ‘voice of the overlooked,’” said Dr. Emily Carter, a political strategist at Melbourne University. „Attacking her personal connections risks reinforcing that narrative.” GetUp’s strategy instead seeks to expose policy gaps, such as One Nation’s opposition to renewable energy investments, which could resonate with younger voters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are character attacks discouraged in this election cycle? GetUp argues that personal attacks on Hanson often energize her supporters rather than persuading swing voters. The group prioritizes policy-focused messaging to appeal to undecided Victorians concerned with practical issues like cost of living and public services.

What is GetUp’s main focus in countering One Nation? The organization aims to highlight disagreements on climate action, healthcare funding, and workers’ rights. By contrasting One Nation’s positions with progressive alternatives, GetUp hopes to erode the party’s appeal in key marginal seats.

How significant are Hanson’s ties to Gina Rinehart? While Hanson’s financial connections to Rinehart are notable, GetUp considers them a secondary concern. The group emphasizes that policy differences—rather than personal associations—will determine electoral outcomes in Victoria.