Independent Senator David Pocock has indicated he is open to the idea of forming a party of independents, as a new poll suggests One Nation could become the main opposition party. The Redbridge poll, surveying over 6,000 voters, found One Nation could win up to 59 seats in the lower house, potentially replacing the Coalition as the primary opposition.
Senator Pocock, a former Wallabies player elected in 2022, said he is engaged in ongoing conversations about Australia's political future. He noted that the rise of One Nation reflects public frustration with the major parties, stating that many Australians feel the political system is not working for them.
The senator also addressed resource taxation, arguing that the government must ensure a fair return for taxpayers from gas and emerging industries. He reiterated his support for a 25 per cent export tax on gas profits, similar to the Norwegian model, but clarified that this would not involve approving new gas projects.
Shadow Housing Minister Andrew Bragg commented on the poll results, suggesting the Liberal Party is being punished for being too similar to Labor. He called for an 'economic revolution' and advocated for increasing the capital gains tax discount, which Labor recently scaled back.
