Katter's Australian Party is standing firm behind its decision to employ a social media team based in Sri Lanka, despite facing criticism about keeping digital operations offshore rather than creating jobs for Australians.
The revelation came to light during a recent parliamentary hearing where KAP state leader Robbie Katter confirmed the arrangement, describing the Sri Lankan team as "very effective" in managing the party's online presence.
The offshore social media strategy has raised eyebrows among political observers and sparked debate about whether Australian political parties should prioritize local employment for such roles.
During the hearing, Mr. Katter defended the party's approach, emphasizing the quality of work produced by the international team. He stated that the arrangement allows the party to maintain a consistent and professional social media output while managing costs effectively.
The controversy touches on broader questions about globalization in political operations and whether parties should practice what they preach when it comes to supporting Australian jobs and industries.
Critics argue that political parties, particularly those with strong advocacy for Australian workers and industries, should lead by example in employing locals for key operational roles. Supporters, however, point to the practical benefits of accessing global talent pools and cost efficiencies.
As digital campaigning becomes increasingly central to political success, the revelation highlights the evolving nature of political operations in an interconnected world and raises important questions about where parties draw the line between practical efficiency and principle.
