State Premier Sells Optimism in Election Bid Amid One Nation Surge

‘Do we want the politics of division and discord driven by identity and tribalism?’ asked Peter Malinauskas at his campaign launch.

Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas at press conference during day one of LIV Adelaide at The Grange Golf Club in Adelaide, Australia on Feb. 12, 2026. Sarah Reed/Getty Images

South Australia’s premier has painted the upcoming state poll as a crucial ballot on the future of politics, urging voters to reject “division and discord” amid a surge in support for One Nation.

Peter Malinauskas sought to project a positive future for the southern state on Sunday as he officially launched Labor’s campaign for re-election a month out from the vote.