NSW Senator Criticises Liberal Party’s Preference Deal With One Nation, Calls to Reclaim Centre

After nearly 3 decades of tension, the Coalition and One Nation effectively cemented their alliance during the 2025 election campaign.

Australia's Opposition Leader Peter Dutton stands with his family as he concedes defeat in the general election at the Liberal Party election night event in Brisbane, Australia, on May 3, 2025. Patrick Hamilton/AFP via Getty Images

Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg criticised the Coalition’s decision to preference One Nation ahead of Labor in key seats, claiming it alienated centrist voters and damaged the party’s credibility.

“I don’t think preferencing One Nation is a good idea for the Liberal Party. [Former Prime Minister] John Howard was right about that,” Bragg told ABC Radio.