There were ugly scenes at Anzac Day dawn services when a small handful of people booed during the welcome to country in several cities. Most politicians condemned the behaviour, including opposition leader Angus Taylor, but he nevertheless said the next day that he thought the ceremonies were ‘overused’ and that he understood Australians’ frustration with them. In the same interview, he also said in relation to immigration there was a higher risk ‘that some bad people’ come from ‘bad countries’. Jo Tovey sits down with Mike Ticher, Patrick Keneally and Krishani Dhanji to discuss the risks of chasing One Nation to the right.
Risks of Courting One Nation
By echoing the hateful policies of One Nation, the Liberal party risks becoming a recruiting agent for extremist groups, as noted by Malcolm Turnbull. Angus Taylor’s shameful remarks about ‘bad’ countries obscure the bigger question – how can we make sure Australia is a good one? These comments have sparked a broader debate about the direction of Australian politics and the dangers of pandering to far-right ideologies.
Political Reactions
The backlash against Taylor’s statements has been swift, with many accusing him of dog-whistling to One Nation supporters. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle within the Liberal party to maintain its centrist identity while competing for votes from the right. As the coalition navigates these treacherous waters, the potential for alienating moderate voters and empowering extremist groups remains a significant concern.
