Voters in the Western Australian state by-election for the Secret Harbour electorate are expressing significant discontent, with national political figures Anthony Albanese and Pauline Hanson frequently mentioned despite their absence from the ballot. Key issues driving voter sentiment include immigration, the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and the state of the healthcare system. These concerns are shaping voter decisions even as the incumbent Labor party engages in an extensive and well-funded campaign.
Voter Frustration and National Figures
Interviews conducted with residents across Madora Bay, Singleton, Lakelands, and Port Kennedy reveal a deep-seated frustration with current political leadership and national policies. Many voters, including those who previously supported Labor, are indicating a shift in their allegiance.
Tammy Stone, a small business owner and mother of three, stated her intention to change her vote from Labor, citing personal dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. This sentiment was echoed by Mark Hopkins, a Lakelands resident, who also expressed disapproval of Premier Roger Cook, aligning himself with One Nation. Hopkins’ primary concern is immigration, arguing that the country is struggling to accommodate its existing population and those experiencing homelessness, let alone the influx of 350,000 people in the past year. He also voiced criticism towards Treasurer Rita Saffioti regarding public spending on projects like the Perth Park racetrack and various events, demanding greater transparency on taxpayer costs.
Healthcare Concerns Emerge
The state of the healthcare system is another significant issue. Navy reservist Mark Ferrell recounted his daughter’s lengthy wait of eight hours to see a doctor for her baby, describing the hospital system as “broken.” Despite meeting Labor candidate Georgia Tree and finding her personable and intelligent, Ferrell remains undecided, concerned about her relative inexperience compared to the former minister she is seeking to replace.
Another former Labor voter, retired police officer Nick Holbert, plans to vote for One Nation, expressing a belief that the current government is all talk and no delivery. While he supports Pauline Hanson’s intentions, he questions her capacity to lead. Holbert was unfazed by Labor’s campaign highlighting One Nation’s voting record.
Campaign Tactics and Candidate Visibility
The campaign has seen Labor employ aggressive tactics, including attack ads targeting One Nation and Liberal leader Basil Zempilas. Premier Roger Cook defended this strategy, asserting that it involves stating facts about One Nation’s track record and contrasting it with the experience of the young Labor candidate, Georgia Tree. He accused One Nation of employing trolls and bots from the east coast to spread misinformation and highlighted the perceived aggression directed at Ms. Tree.
Labor has also focused on social media, sharing images of Mr. Zempilas interacting with One Nation candidate Luke Herdegen and mocking a doorbell camera video of the Liberal leader posing for photos. Internal polling suggests Mr. Zempilas is a divisive figure, though Liberal candidate Ryan Robertson views his celebrity status as an advantage and a conversation starter.
Robertson acknowledged that the Liberal party is being outspent but believes Labor’s attacks indicate a shift in momentum against the Cook government. He noted that while many voters are positive about change, they are uncertain about the specific form it will take.
One Nation as a Key Contender
Labor sources perceive One Nation, bolstered by Liberal preferences, as the more significant threat in the by-election. Premier Cook acknowledged the anticipated difficulty of the contest but expressed confidence in his party’s readiness.
The electorate, traditionally a safe Labor seat since 1989, is facing an unexpected challenge following the early departure of former police minister Paul Papalia. This has created an opportunity for One Nation, which is reportedly experiencing a surge in national popularity.
Local Economic Concerns and Voter Indecision
Beyond national figures, local economic pressures are heavily influencing voter sentiment. Brendan Laraia, owner of Singleton Beach Cafe, highlighted the impact of rising costs, including fuel levies on deliveries and increased expenses for power, gas, and rates, on his business. Despite the potential for increased customer numbers due to population growth, he remains undecided on who to support, uncertain about the causes and solutions for these economic challenges.
Richard Smith, a Singleton resident, expressed skepticism about One Nation’s capabilities and is leaning towards the Liberal party, partly due to Labor’s repeated promises regarding the Karnup train station. He believes Labor has “done their dash.”
Even among friends, the political discourse is creating divisions. Tab, who admires Pauline Hanson, faced playful disbelief from her friend Jacqui, a nurse who remains undecided after voting Labor previously. The third member of their group, Allara, is also undecided but expressed concern about taxation, while acknowledging Pauline Hanson’s appeal despite reservations about her delivery style. She recognized One Nation candidate Luke Herdegen.
Conclusion: A Tight Race Ahead
With the by-election scheduled for August 29, the Secret Harbour electorate is a focal point for political attention. The outcome will be closely watched to determine if One Nation’s rise is a genuine trend and if Western Australia’s Labor government, which has maintained an election-winning streak since the 2018 Darling Range by-election, is facing a significant challenge.
