At Perth’s CPAC conference, Liberal party faithful speak of ‘the lost Australians’ – with no sign of One Nation
The CPAC conference in Perth highlighted the Liberal Party's efforts to regain its footing in the conservative landscape amid competition from One Nation.
The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held in Perth, Western Australia, served as a platform for the Liberal Party to rally its base and address its declining political influence. The event, named 'Reset the West', saw a strong focus on uniting conservatives, yet it notably lacked representation from One Nation, a rival right-wing party that has seen a rise in popularity, recently polling between 20% and 25%. This absence of One Nation's presence illustrated the Liberals' attempt to consolidate their position at the forefront of conservative politics in Australia.
Federal Liberal MP Andrew Hastie utilized the platform to criticize the Labor Party's immigration policies, which he argued link directly to the ongoing housing crisis affecting many Australians. He conveyed a sense of urgency, suggesting that increased immigration has strained public infrastructure and services, a sentiment resonating with the predominantly older audience in attendance. The emphasis on immigration and infrastructure as key issues reflects the party's strategic shift to appeal to voters who feel disenfranchised by recent government policies and their consequences.
As the Liberal Party faces increasing challenges from One Nation and a waning voter base, this conference represents a pivotal moment in their strategy to reclaim lost ground in Australian politics. The rally not only signifies an introspective look at past electoral failures but also aims to rejuvenate party loyalty among conservatives. The long-term implications of this gathering could reshape the dynamics of right-wing politics in Australia, especially if the Liberals seek to redefine their identity amidst stiff competition from emerging factions within the conservative movement.