Gina Rinehart's Support for One Nation Raises Concerns Over Political Influence
Has Gina Rinehart ‘bought’ One Nation? Pauline Hanson has the billionaire’s backing – and she’s super happy
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
Gina Rinehart, Australia's richest person, has significantly backed the One Nation party, led by Pauline Hanson. This support includes funding, private flights, and political fundraisers, raising questions about the influence of wealthy donors in Australian politics and the implications for electoral integrity.
- 01Gina Rinehart's financial support for One Nation includes multiple undisclosed flights and political fundraisers.
- 02Rinehart's backing has led to a shift in One Nation's political strategy, distancing from the Liberal party.
- 03Concerns have been raised about the influence of wealthy donors on political parties in Australia.
- 04Hanson openly acknowledges Rinehart's support, showcasing a new plane donated by the billionaire.
- 05Australia's electoral laws are under scrutiny as they may allow for significant undisclosed donations.
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Gina Rinehart, the billionaire owner of Hancock Prospecting, has been increasingly involved with the One Nation party, led by Pauline Hanson. Following a lavish dinner where Rinehart's beef company provided wagyu steaks, former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce switched allegiance to One Nation. Rinehart has hosted fundraisers for the party, including a notable auction at sea, and has given multiple flights to Hanson that were not declared as required by Senate rules. Despite initial denials, Hanson now proudly claims Rinehart's backing, even showcasing a newly donated Cirrus SR22 G7 plane valued at up to $2 million USD. Critics, including the Centre for Public Integrity chair Anthony Whealy, have expressed concerns that Rinehart's financial influence amounts to a de facto ownership of the party, undermining the integrity of Australia’s political landscape. With upcoming changes to electoral laws, the implications of Rinehart's support for One Nation could have lasting effects on Australian politics.
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The influence of wealthy donors like Rinehart on political parties could reshape policy decisions and electoral dynamics in Australia.
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