Australia's political landscape is undergoing a significant shift, with the rise of One Nation as a prominent force. This movement, which has gained momentum over the past year, is a reflection of the economic struggles faced by a generation that has traditionally been less vocal in politics - Generation X.
The economic pessimism and growing disparities between the rich and poor have driven a wedge between the major parties and the electorate. Generation X, now mostly in their 50s, finds themselves caught between providing for aging parents and supporting younger children, all while facing unique economic challenges.
One Nation's appeal lies in its promise to address these concerns. As Wesley Jasper, a former military officer turned government worker, puts it, "100% the economy." Jasper, who has recently become a One Nation member, feels his hard work hasn't translated into financial security. He and his partner, after years of renting in Canberra, moved back to Ballarat to afford a mortgage.
Academic studies support this trend, showing a strong link between economic pessimism and the rise of independent and populist alternatives. Kos Samaras, from Redbridge, notes that the typical One Nation voter is now younger, in their 40s and 50s, and often renting in the outer suburbs or regional areas.
Terry Rawnsley, an urban economist, describes Gen X as the "sandwich generation," squeezed between supporting their parents and children. This generation faces distinct economic challenges, including lower home ownership rates and higher debt compared to their parents. ABS data confirms a dramatic drop in home ownership among Gen Xers, with only 15% owning their homes outright by 2020.
Beth Webster, an economics professor, attributes the economic disaffection to the soaring cost of living. The gap between the rich and poor is widening, with wages for the highest-paid workers growing at more than twice the pace of those at the bottom.
The shift towards One Nation is a cry for change and a reflection of the growing sense of disenfranchisement among Generation X. As Brent Larkham, a small business owner and former "lefty," puts it, "Integrity is lost."
The challenge for the major parties is to offer solutions that address these deep-rooted economic issues and regain the trust of a generation that feels left behind.
This political awakening among Gen Xers is a powerful reminder that economic struggles can reshape the political landscape, and the implications of this shift are yet to be fully realized.
