by Populism in Australia and New Zealand
Introduction
Is there a distinctly antipodean form of populism? While populism in Europe and the Americas has been extensively analyzed, Australia and New Zealand often remain underexplored in this context. Recognizable figures like Pauline Hanson in Australia or Winston Peters in New Zealand are well-documented, but broader comparative analyses of populism across these two nations remain sparse. This chapter examines whether a unique “antipodean populism” exists and explores its defining features. By comparing populist dynamics in Australia and New Zealand, it argues that antipodean populism blends elements of ethno-exclusivism common in European populism with the rural and protectionist characteristics found in North American populism.
Defining Antipodean Populism
To understand antipodean populism, Ostiguy’s concept of populism as a performative style, which emphasizes “flaunting the low,” proves most effective. Unlike Mudde’s ideological approach, which categorizes populism as a binary phenomenon, Ostiguy’s framework captures populism’s nuanced, ordinal nature in Australia and New Zealand. This approach is particularly relevant, as populism in these countries is not confined to minor parties but often permeates mainstream politics.
Populism in Australia: A History of Rural Roots and Media Stunts
Australia’s populist history spans from 19th-century agrarian movements to contemporary figures like Pauline Hanson, Bob Katter, and Clive Palmer. These figures reflect a populist style deeply rooted in the country’s rural traditions and characterized by a performative appeal to “ordinary Australians.”
The Legacy of Joh Bjelke-Petersen
Joh Bjelke-Petersen, Queensland’s premier from 1968 to 1987, is a seminal figure in Australian populism. Dubbed the “Hillbilly Dictator,” his governance combined authoritarian control with populist rhetoric aimed at ordinary citizens. His awkward speech patterns, folksy demeanor, and media manipulation endeared him to rural voters while earning Queensland a reputation for political exceptionalism.
Pauline Hanson and One Nation
Pauline Hanson, founder of the One Nation party, exemplifies Australia’s radical right populism. Her infamous claim that Australia was being “swamped by Asians” (later revised to “swamped by Muslims”) marked her political identity. Hanson’s appeal lies in her self-styled image as a small-business owner speaking for the “forgotten people.” While One Nation initially surged in the late 1990s, its influence waned before a surprising resurgence in the 2016 elections.
Bob Katter and Rural Populism
Bob Katter’s populism draws heavily on rural issues, reflecting his identity as a cowboy-hat-wearing champion of farmers. His theatrical antics, such as singing during press conferences or riding a lawnmower to a political rally, are staples of his style. Katter’s mix of economic protectionism and cultural conservatism underscores his appeal to rural voters.
Clive Palmer and Anti-Establishment Populism
Billionaire Clive Palmer took a different approach, using his wealth to create the Palmer United Party (PUP). Palmer’s populism focuses less on immigration and more on anti-establishment rhetoric, targeting the political elite. His unconventional media appearances, including twerking and donning a rabbit costume, reinforce his image as a disruptor.
Electoral Challenges for Australian Populism
Australian populism faces three major barriers:
- Institutionalized Two-Party Dominance: The Labor and Liberal-National Coalition parties overshadow populist movements.
- Electoral Systems: Single-member constituencies in the House of Representatives favor major parties, though the Senate offers more opportunities for minor parties.
- Mainstreaming of Populism: Issues like immigration have been co-opted by major parties, making it harder for populists to differentiate themselves.
Populism in New Zealand: Winston Peters and NZ First
New Zealand’s populism has a distinct face: Winston Peters and his New Zealand First (NZ First) party. Unlike Australia, New Zealand has lacked a proliferation of populist figures, with Peters dominating the scene for decades.
Winston Peters: The Smooth Operator
Winston Peters combines anti-immigration rhetoric with a broader platform that includes economic nationalism and social welfare. His critiques of globalization, Asian immigration, and Māori privileges echo themes from Australian populism, yet Peters operates with a smoother, less abrasive style. NZ First’s success stems partly from New Zealand’s Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system, which allows minor parties to thrive in coalition governments.
Common Features of Antipodean Populism
- Exclusivity and Protectionism
Antipodean populism often seeks to “protect” established citizens from perceived threats posed by immigrants, elites, and indigenous groups. While this exclusivity resembles European populism, it also reflects a uniquely antipodean focus on rural producerism and economic nationalism. - Producerist Identity
Populists in Australia and New Zealand glorify the rural and suburban working classes. Agriculture and manual labor symbolize the “authentic people,” contrasting with urban elites and welfare recipients. - Settler Colonial Legacy
Australia and New Zealand’s histories as settler colonies inform their populism. The targeting of indigenous groups—seen as beneficiaries of “special treatment”—is a notable divergence from European populism. For example, Hanson has criticized the “Aboriginal industry,” while Peters has lambasted Māori Treaty settlements. - Geographic Isolation
Both nations’ island status contributes to anxieties about immigration and border control. Anti-Asian and anti-Muslim rhetoric reflects fears of cultural and economic “invasion.” - Mainstreamed Populism
Populist rhetoric is deeply embedded in mainstream political culture. This normalization blurs the lines between populist and traditional parties, as seen in John Howard’s co-opting of Hanson’s anti-immigration policies during his tenure as Prime Minister.
A Distinct Regional Subtype
Antipodean populism occupies a space between European radical right populism and North American rural populism. It combines the nativism and exclusivity of the former with the producerist focus of the latter. However, its unique features—such as the settler colonial legacy and geographic isolation—set it apart as a distinct regional subtype.
Conclusion
While populism in Australia and New Zealand shares traits with its European and North American counterparts, its distinct features merit recognition as a unique antipodean subtype. This chapter underscores the need for comparative scholars to expand their focus beyond traditional regions. By examining antipodean populism, researchers can gain valuable insights into how populism adapts to specific cultural, historical, and geographic contexts. As populism continues to evolve globally, the antipodes offer a compelling case study of its varied forms and trajectories.
