By Sue Barrett

Unmasking Manipulation and Fighting for Progress

The modern political landscape is increasingly shaped by covert strategies that exploit social media and digital platforms to manipulate vulnerable demographics. Among the most alarming trends is the rise of the manosphere – a loosely connected network of online spaces promoting toxic masculinity and reactionary ideologies. Its impact on democracy, societal integrity, and inclusivity cannot be overstated. While presenting itself as a haven for disaffected men and boys, the manosphere functions as a gateway for conservative elites to manipulate them into voting against their best interests, exacerbating inequalities and stalling progress toward a livable, sustainable world.

The Manosphere: A Trojan Horse for Reactionary Politics

Research highlights how the manosphere preys on men and boys who feel alienated by social changes such as gender equality, economic instability, and shifting labour markets. Prominent figures and platforms within this space weaponise discontent, offering scapegoats – women, feminists, minorities – while diverting attention from the real culprits: billionaires and fossil fuel corporations hoarding resources and power at the expense of humanity.

Social media platforms amplify these narratives, often driven by algorithms designed to stoke outrage. The result is a self-reinforcing echo chamber where disillusioned individuals are radicalised into believing their struggles stem from the erosion of traditional gender roles, rather than systemic exploitation by powerful elites including corporate oligarchs and their authoritarian allies. Consequently, these men become foot soldiers for policies and politicians that further entrench inequality, gut social programs, and block climate action – policies that ultimately harm them and their families.

Manipulation Through Social Media: The New Propaganda Machine

Agencies like Topham Guerin, (featured in The Saturday Paper: Dutton hires Morrison’s ‘disinformation’ team, 7 Dec 2024) which played a significant role in Scott Morrison’s 2019 victory and other conservative campaigns, exemplify how social media is weaponised to distort public perception. Their approach relies on emotional manipulation, crafting viral content that inflames anger, fear, and pride to distract from substantive issues. By exploiting arousal emotions, these campaigns bypass rational debate, leaving voters vulnerable to disinformation. Alarmingly 97% of adult Australians have limited skills to verify information online.

For instance, the recent use of deepfake technology and AI-generated content to smear political opponents reveals the lengths to which these actors will go to sow distrust and cynicism. The rise of platforms like TikTok as political battlegrounds further complicates the issue. While progressive groups once dominated the digital space, authoritarian and conservative campaigners now lead, using targeted content to shape public opinion and voter behaviour.

The manosphere thrives in this ecosystem, serving as both a recruitment ground and a testing lab for divisive messaging. It redirects legitimate frustrations – stagnant wages, lack of opportunities – into reactionary causes that reinforce existing power structures. For instance, rates of youth radicalisation are climbing in Australia and abroad.

The Hidden Agenda: Protecting Power and Wealth

Billionaires, fossil fuel companies, and conservative elites fund and amplify these campaigns, not out of ideological alignment but self-preservation. By fostering division and undermining collective action, they ensure their wealth and influence remain unchallenged. Policies that would benefit the majority – universal healthcare, renewable energy investments, fair taxation – are framed as threats to freedom or tradition, obscuring their true potential to create a more equitable society.

This agenda is not new. Researchers like Cameron Murray and Paul Frijters have documented how these power structures rig systems, from procurement to public policy, to benefit the few at the expense of the many. The details are outlined in their book Rigged: How networks of powerful mates rip off everyday Australians. What is new is the scale and sophistication of their tactics, enabled by digital tools and the psychological vulnerabilities they exploit.

The Cost of Manipulation: Democracy and Society in Crisis

The consequences of these manipulative tactics extend beyond individual elections. Democracies are weakened when public trust erodes, and voters are polarised into warring factions. Inclusivity suffers as marginalised groups become targets of scapegoating, further entrenching systemic inequalities. Meanwhile, urgent global challenges like climate change and economic justice are sidelined in favor of culture wars and manufactured outrage.

Fighting Back: A Call to Action

Reclaiming democracy and building an inclusive society requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Engaging Men and Boys: Combat the narratives of the manosphere by fostering critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Highlight how reactionary policies harm their futures and promote alternative models of masculinity rooted in cooperation and respect.
2. Exposing Disinformation: Hold political actors and their agencies accountable for spreading falsehoods. Advocate for stricter regulations on digital advertising and AI-generated content.
3. Redirecting Anger Toward Real Issues: Channel frustrations toward systemic injustices – economic inequality, climate inaction, and corruption – rather than scapegoats. This requires clear, honest communication from progressive leaders and politicians who work for their communities, not vested interests.
4. Challenging Power Structures: Support policies that dismantle systemic barriers, such as campaign finance reform, progressive taxation, and investments in renewable energy and public infrastructure.
5. Building Bridges of Inclusion: Create spaces for dialogue that emphasise common ground and shared interests. Highlight the benefits of an equitable, sustainable future for all, rather than a zero-sum game.

Conclusion: Winning the Battle for Progress

The manipulation of men and boys through the manosphere and similar tactics is not just a cultural issue but a political crisis that threatens democracy and societal integrity. By exposing the true intentions of corporate oligarchs and their authoritarian allies and equipping individuals with the tools to resist disinformation, we can push back against the forces that seek to divide us. Progress is possible, but only if we confront these challenges head-on and work together to create a fairer, more sustainable world. Let’s reclaim our future from those who would sacrifice it for their short-term gain.

Onward we press.

Reputable References for this Article

1. Books and Academic Research
   • Angela Nagle, “Kill All Normies” (2017): Explores the rise of online cultures, including the manosphere, and their impact on politics and society.
   • Michael Kimmel, “Angry White Men: American Masculinity at the End of an Era” (2017): Analyzes how changes in society have led to the rise of toxic masculinity and reactionary movements.
   • Cameron Murray and Paul Frijters, “Game of Mates” (2017):Investigates how powerful elites manipulate systems to maintain wealth and influence.
   • Zeynep Tufekci, “Twitter and Tear Gas” (2017): Discusses how digital platforms influence social movements and public discourse.
2. Reports and Studies
   • The Australian Institute, “Climate of the Nation 2023”:Reports on how fossil fuel companies fund disinformation campaigns to delay climate action.
   • The Anti-Defamation League (ADL): Research on the spread of extremist ideologies, including toxic masculinity, through digital platforms.
   • Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), “Digital Misogyny: The Online Spaces that Target Women” (2021): Examines how the manosphere fuels hatred and reinforces inequalities.
3. Journalistic Investigations
   • The Guardian Australia, “How Australia’s Housing Crisis Was Created by Policy Choices”:Explains how political decisions benefit property developers and investors while worsening housing affordability.
   • The New York Times, “The Billionaire Behind Far-Right Platforms”: Profiles on how billionaires fund disinformation and culture wars.
   • ABC News Australia, “Deepfake Technology and Political Manipulation in Australia”:Investigates the use of AI in Australian elections by agencies like Topham Guerin.
4. Policy and Data Analysis
   • Oxfam Australia, “Inequality Report 2022”: Highlights how wealth concentration undermines democracy and equality.
   • Grattan Institute, “The Wealth Divide in Australia” (2023): Shows how tax policies and systemic barriers maintain inequality.
5. Media and Social Commentary
   • Jonathan Haidt and Tobias Rose-Stockwell, “The Dark Psychology of Social Networks” (The Atlantic, 2019): Explores how algorithms exploit human emotions to polarize and manipulate.
   • Crikey, “Topham Guerin and the Role of Disinformation in Australian Politics”: Investigates the tactics used by conservative digital agencies to influence elections.
   • The Conversation, “How the Manosphere Shapes Gender and Political Beliefs”: Breaks down how online spaces promote reactionary ideologies and harm societal cohesion.
6. Organisations and Advocacy Groups
   • Plan International, “State of the World’s Men 2023”: Examines how outdated gender norms harm men and society.
   • Climate Action Network Australia: Highlights fossil fuel companies’ disinformation campaigns to block climate policies.
   • Reset Australia: Advocates for better regulations on digital advertising and algorithmic accountability to combat online disinformation.

These references provide a mix of academic research, investigative journalism, and policy analysis to support the article’s claims about the manosphere, systemic manipulation, and their broader implications for democracy and inclusivity.

This article was originally published on Sue Barrett.

Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) Media Release

ACOSS has referred the Federal Government to the Commonwealth Ombudsman following the latest revelations that income support payments may have been illegally cancelled, affecting at least 1,000 people between April 2022 and July 2024.

The referral comes after CEO Cassandra Goldie wrote to Employment Minister Murray Watt, urging the Government to refer itself and initiate a full legal and human rights investigation into the Targeted Compliance Framework (TCF).

“The Government has failed to take appropriate action over this very serious issue so we have been left with no choice but to make this referral,” said Dr Goldie.

“ACOSS has strongly opposed the harsh and punitive TCF since its implementation in 2018. We have repeatedly warned successive ministers about the harm and damage it causes to the hundreds of thousands of people subjected to it and called for its suspension.

“A business review by private consultants is not appropriate. We need a fully independent, arm’s-length open legal and human rights review of the system to uncover any other potential illegality or human rights violations as soon as possible.”

If confirmed unlawful, this latest revelation would mark the third instance in recent years of illegal action against people relying on income support for essentials.

ACOSS is calling on the Federal Government to immediately stop the TCF payment suspensions, financial penalties and cancellations until it can ensure people’s legal and human rights are guaranteed.

“The compliance system cannot continue to operate against hundreds of thousands of people often in very vulnerable circumstances whilst the legality of decisions are in question and basic protections are still not in place,” said Dr Goldie.

“The Government must also release a public statement, immediately contact everyone affected and release the legal advice that casts doubt over its lawfulness.

“Payment suspensions, financial penalties and cancellation have extremely harmful impacts on people, including not only the loss of income but also potential homelessness, relationship breakdown, mental illness and destitution.”

Minister Watt Cancellations Letter (ACOSS).pdf

Camp Sovereignty Media Release

Mark Regev, former senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Australian citizen, has been served with charges of advocating genocide. The next hearing will take place at the Victorian Magistrates’ Court on 10 December 2024.

The case, initiated by Krautungalung Elder and human rights advocate Uncle Robbie Thorpe, accuses Regev of publicly endorsing actions constituting genocide during the Gaza siege. In statements broadcast on Australian media, Regev allegedly supported policies aimed at destroying the Palestinian population in Gaza, including advocating for starvation. These actions, in breach of Section 80.2D of the Criminal Code Act 1995, carry a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment.

This case is a significant step forward compared to ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutions involving Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as the ICC case cannot proceed until their arrests. In contrast, the prosecution of Regev is already underway.

The legal proceedings unfold against the backdrop of Australia’s shifting stance on Palestine, marked by its recent vote at the United Nations in support of a resolution demanding an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. This marks a departure from Australia’s traditional alignment with the United States.

Under the Criminal Code Act 1995, this case tests Australia’s commitment to upholding justice, both locally and in the context of international accountability. With Israel invoking diplomatic immunity on Regev’s behalf, the decision to proceed with prosecution now lies with the Commonwealth and the Department of Public Prosecutions. This highlights the far-reaching implications of the case.

“This case will show whether Australia is serious about prosecuting crimes of genocide, or whether we allow our citizens to shield themselves behind bureaucracy. We have a law in place with a lower burden of proof than international law. It must be applied now to ensure accountability for actions that promote destruction and suffering” Uncle Robbie Thorpe stated.

Thorpe urges the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions to take decisive action in filing an indictment against Regev. He believes this case presents an opportunity for Australia to lead in enforcing laws against genocide. “Australia has the tools, the evidence, and the obligation. Now we must act. Failure to prosecute Mark Regev for advocating genocide would be a stain on our nation’s conscience,” Uncle Robbie said.

“The charges against Mark Regev mark an important moment in the fight for accountability and justice. For far too long, leaders and officials responsible for the suffering and destruction of marginalised communities have acted with impunity. This case isn’t just about Gaza, it’s about the broader principle that no individual, no matter their position or connections, is above the law.” said Keiran Stewart-Assheton, president of the Black Peoples Union and a Traditional Owner of Wani-Wandian Country in the Yuin Nation.

If the Australian courts fail to pursue the case to its full conclusion or diplomatic immunity prevents a fair prosecution, the matter could escalate to the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC holds jurisdiction over genocide and other international crimes when domestic systems are unable or unwilling to act. With Regev already served and the case progressing, this prosecution presents an opportunity to set a precedent for domestic accountability while reinforcing global justice mechanisms.

Dementia Australia Media Release

Dementia Australia welcomes the National Dementia Action Plan, a ten-year framework for government that provides the opportunity to make enduring positive changes to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said the plan is vital to ensure that the more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, their families and carers have access to the best care and support available.

“The National Dementia Action Plan provides a clear vision for the future, where all Australians understand dementia and all people living with all forms of dementia and their carers have quality of life,” said Professor Buchanan.

The Action Plan includes eight actions across multiple domains including equity and human rights, reducing stigma, increasing dementia awareness and prevention, supporting early diagnosis, care and support, enabling the workforce, enhancing research and innovation, and improving dementia data collection.

“This means there will be greater focus on the impacts of dementia and availability of services now and how we can improve the experience of diagnosis, support and care for people with concerns about dementia, living with dementia and their families and carers in the future,” said Professor Buchanan.

“I acknowledge the extensive contributions by people living with dementia, their families and carers in creating the National Dementia Action Plan and congratulate the Federal Government along with State and Territory Governments and key stakeholders that were involved in developing the plan.

“Dementia Australia is committed to working with the Government and across the sector on the delivery of the Action Plan and to ensure we have the right systems in place for all Australians impacted to be able to access appropriate services and more treatments as they become available.

“Dementia Australia will continue our vital work in supporting people living with dementia, their families and carers, tackling the stigma and discrimination that can have such an impact, increasing brain health awareness, supporting the aged care workforce and all healthcare professionals to provide quality dementia care.

“For all Australians seeking support and information, please contact the 24/7 National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au.”

Read here for more information.

By Mason Garland

It’s now been over a month since the beginning of the Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Brisbane City Council’s crackdown on the homeless tent cities at Musgrave Park (and Kurilpa Point Park).

And since then, there has been a recognisable decline in tent sleepers staying at Musgrave Park, many choosing to migrate elsewhere to access necessary resources and/or avoid pressure from the Council and police.

According to several sources among community organisations operating in Musgrave, several of these rough sleepers have “dropped off” and lost contact with them.

And while concerns of safety and “anti-social behaviour” were the justifications given for turning off the power and the barbecues, installing temporary 24/7 cameras, and announcing a police task force, it seems for each aspect of the Council’s current approach there is something that changes the story that both the Schrinner Council and the mainstream media are telling.

Turning Off the Power

According to the public records of the BCC’s November 5th proceedings, Gabba Ward Green’s Councillor Trina Massey pushed for a motion to have the power turned back on, which lost 10-7.

While supporting the need to keep the power off, Cr Sarah Hutton proclaimed that the only power outlets available in the parks are within “public barbecues and locked switchboards…[which] have been repeatedly vandalised and hotwired.”

Cr Hutton stated that this caused “a very dangerous electrical fire…[that] involved a tent that was illegally accessing [the electrical box].”

“The fire was extremely dangerous and forced the decision for us to switch the power.”

But according to a council official, the power was cut due to an electrical team, during a usual visit into Musgrave Park, finding the electrical box with jerry-rigged powerpoints and leads running into the tents during rainfall.

The electrical team informed that “someone was about to get electrocuted and would’ve died.”

“It wasn’t the accessing; it wasn’t the breaking [into the electrical box]; they’ve been fixing those boxes for years.”

Thus it was decided that continuously locking the box was not a solution to prevent someone from getting hurt or killed.

Therefore, the solution became turning the power off to keep the people living there safe, not because of any “anti-social behaviour,” as Council, the Lord Mayor, and mainstream media have chosen to solely blame it on.

The council official further explained that having the power cut also impacts the ability of event organisers, as well as council and contract workers like cleaners, to fulfil their tasks at the parks.

“Can the boxes be accessed safely without being tampered with? The [electrical] boxes weren’t made with weather in mind.”

So in order for the power to come back on, two decisions have to be made: Can safe access to power be ensured, and “the political one,” that being whether the park is considered safe enough.

As for safe alternatives to accessible electricity, the Greens have pushed for USB ports being installed in public parks, much like what you see in public buses.

In the Nov 5th Council proceedings, this was dismissed by Cr Vicki Howard and Cr Hutton as an inadequate solution to homelessness.
However, there are many benefits to installing USB ports in public parks, especially Musgrave Park and Kurilpa Point Park.

The main purpose rough sleepers use electricity is for charging their phones or powering items that connect via USB cables, also USB ports provide a lower voltage, making them more cost-effective and safer to use.

But as long as there’s an LNP majority Brisbane City Council, USB ports won’t be seen in public parks.

BBQs

While there hasn’t been any progress on returning power, the BBQs at both Musgrave and Kurilpa Point Park have been restored, as it didn’t take long for Council to learn why it wasn’t a good idea to turn them off.

Without access to public BBQs, rough sleepers were bringing camping gas stove burners into the park to cook food.

Given that there were tensions between individuals and/or groups at the park or with people not from the park, these camp stoves with their gas canisters became dangerous to the point of tents burning down with people inside.

Some of these incidents could have possibly been accidents caused by misusing the portable stoves, but according to a few Musgrave Park tent sleepers, they have witnessed individuals setting tents alight, another waking up to see their tent burning down around them.

Because of this, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Queensland Fire Department urged the Council to turn the BBQs back on.

Surveillance Cameras

Another feature of the Council’s crackdown was installing temporary 24/7 “rapid deployment” surveillance cameras at the parks.

And again, the reported purpose was to address aggressive behaviour.

Out of all of Council’s announced policy approaches, the cameras received some support from community groups and rough sleepers, seeing them as a means to help rough sleepers feel more safe.

But the cameras were installed because of claims of council and contract workers experiencing abuse and assault when working in the parks.

“The cameras are monitored while the workers are present…but are always recording.”

According to the official, council and contract workers refused to go into the parks unless something was done.

They clarified that it’s possible the perpetrators “don’t live in the park,” and “the workers don’t know as they go [to Musgrave Park and Kurilpa Point Park] only once every two weeks.”

Police Taskforce

Last of all, and arguably the most controversial part of the Lord Mayor’s crackdown was the police taskforce that Schrinner asked the QLD police commissioner to create.

But according to a conversation Paul Slater, North West Community Group, revealed that he had with a high-ranking South Brisbane area police officer, “there is no such task force, and nothing has changed in the police’s approach to homelessness or their cooperation with the council.”

This is further supported by a QPS media statement that avoids using the term “taskforce,” instead focusing on the QPS being a part of a “multi-agency response” led by the BCC.

The most material explanation of what the QPS is doing is “patrols… throughout community spaces to ensure safety and to prevent or disrupt any anti-social behaviour.”

However, other than the phrase “anti-social behaviour”, one could argue that this is the established purpose of a police force.

And it should be noted that there is still no QPS supplied evidence to show that the crime rate within Musgrave Park has increased significantly, courtesy of Kenji Sato’s recent article on ABC.

So while it is still inconclusive of whether there is or will be a homeless tent city police taskforce or not, it does seem the QPS aren’t as willing to push the point of one as is Council.

So why would the Lord Mayor call for a police taskforce for the tent cities atop of the other measures taken if there doesn’t seem to be the intention to establish one?

As Slater also said in his post, “the council is deliberately misleading the public and trying to push an anti-homeless rhetoric in the press to change the conversation from helping [the homeless] to moving them on.”

Was Brisbane City Council’s crackdown on tent cities genuinely out of concern for community safety, or was it just politics?

Across all four facets: electricity, BBQs, cameras and a taskforce, the story isn’t as straightforward as “those in the tent cities are becoming aggressive and abusive” yet it seems to be all that the Council wants to focus on.

We may never truly know, but we do know that the QPS crime statistics don’t affirm Council’s claims, that there are underpublicised reasons for Council’s actions, and as Lord Mayor Schrinner said himself when announcing the crackdown days before the QLD election, “an LNP government would do a better job providing community safety for the people of Brisbane.”

This article was originally published on Diary of the Downtrodden.

Productivity Commission Media Release

The Productivity Commission is seeking ideas from everyday Australians to inform our policy recommendations to government.

“We are looking for practical policy ideas from people in all walks of life on how Australia can work smarter, more efficiently, and more productively,” said Chair Danielle Wood.

This initiative follows the Treasurer’s announcement of five new inquiries to be completed by the Productivity Commission:

1. Creating a dynamic and resilient economy
2. Building a more skilled and adaptable workforce
3. Harnessing data and digital technology
4. Delivering quality care more efficiently
5. Investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation

“Everything from our economic security to our living standards and the health of our families and the environment depends on getting these policy areas right.”

The PC will combine the public input with our own research to identify 3-5 policy reforms under each pillar to explore further.

“If you have a clear, actionable policy idea that aligns with one or more of the five inquiry areas we want to hear about it. We want to hear from builders on how to overcome barriers on the job site, teachers on how government can better support their students, and aged and disability care workers on ideas for the care system,” said Ms Wood.

As the Government’s leading independent economic advisory body, the Productivity Commission’s recommendations have helped shape policy for more than twenty years.

“The Productivity Commission has always depended on the input of Australians to inform its recommendations, but this is the first time it has sought out grassroots insights on every aspect of policy in Australia,” said Ms Wood.

“We are throwing open the doors and asking all Australians for their best ideas on how governments can create the kind of growth and improvements in living standards we enjoyed in previous decades.”

“We all have a stake in Australia’s future – the PC is excited to hear first-hand from everyday people how government can shape that future for the better.”

Comments are open until 15 January 2025 on https://engage.pc.gov.au/

The PC will be seeking more detailed submissions on the new inquiries in 2025.

Oxfam Australia Media Release

Oxfam Australia welcomes the Australian Government’s decision to vote in favour of a United Nations resolution urging Israel to end its occupation of the Palestinian Territories.

This shift in Australia’s stance aligns with the UN resolution demanding that “Israel bring to an end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as rapidly as possible.”

The resolution, adopted by the UN General Assembly, also calls for a halt to all new settlement activities and the removal of settlers from the occupied territories. Australia was among 157 nations voting in favour, while seven countries abstained, and eight, including the United States and Israel, opposed the measure.

Lyn Morgain, Oxfam Australia Chief Executive Officer, praised Australia’s vote and urged further action.

“We commend the Australian Government for supporting the UN resolution calling for an end to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territories, including Gaza and the West Bank.

“Oxfam remains deeply concerned by the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Millions of Palestinians are enduring extreme hardship, as ongoing bombardments lead to widespread casualties, forced displacement, starvation, and the destruction of critical infrastructure.

“We are also deeply concerned about reports of escalating violence in the West Bank.

“The Australian Government must take additional steps to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and the lifting of the siege on Gaza, which constitutes a violation of International Humanitarian Law, and for peace in the West Bank.”

Monash University

South Korea was plunged into political chaos overnight when President Yoon Suk Yeol shocked the country by imposing martial law before agreeing to lift it six hours later. The move resulted in soldiers on the streets, protests and a dramatic late night vote in parliament to overturn the declaration.

Gil-Soo Han, Professor Communications & Media Studies, Monash University, says:

“This is not a surprise. The President has been in conflict with parliament for months – using his veto to stop bills, and he has struggled to get his own bills through.

“He has finally been pushed into a corner over the corruption allegations involving him and his wife.

“But he will not resign willingly. And although there are enough reasons to impeach him, it will be difficult because the opposition is eight seats short of the 200 required to win a motion in parliament.”

Andrew David Jackson, Associate Professor, Korean Studies and Director, Monash University Korean Studies Research Hub (MUKSRH) said:

“This is a worrying flashback to the bad old days of the 30-year-long military dictatorship in South Korea.

“Yoon’s justification for introducing martial law is very similar to General Chun Doo Hwan’s justification for extending martial law in May 1980, which led to a further seven years of authoritarian rule.

“These historical parallels will not go down well with a lot of South Koreans – whether they are progressive or conservative.”

How Community Independents Are Redefining Democracy and Offering Australia a Path Away from Extremism

By Sue Barrett

Across the globe, dissatisfaction with major political parties has reached boiling point. Disillusioned by the failures of neoliberalism to create fair societies, many have turned to extremist groups on both the far-right and far-left. This surge in extremism is a response to growing public squalor – a feeling of neglect by governments retreating from their core responsibilities. However, Australia stands apart in this landscape, with a burgeoning movement that offers hope: the Community-backed Independents, or “Teals,” who embody a return to real democracy and community-driven representation.

The Global Crisis of Neoliberalism

Neoliberalism, with its focus on deregulation, privatisation, and profit over people, has left a trail of inequality and social decay. As Alex Fein aptly describes, this manifests as “private splendour; public squalor.” Around the world, public infrastructure crumbles, health systems teeter on collapse, and citizens feel unsafe in their own communities. This breakdown of trust in public institutions creates fertile ground for political volatility.

The far-right, particularly, has capitalised on this chaos by offering zero-sum solutions: prosperity for some at the expense of “out-groups” such as women, immigrants, minorities, or bureaucrats. These narratives, fuelled by fear and exclusion, have found resonance in fractured societies.

Australia’s Political Crossroads: Major Parties Faltering

In Australia, dissatisfaction with traditional parties has also grown. The Liberal Party has adopted far-right rhetoric, offering little in the way of genuine policies to improve Australians’ lives. For example, the Liberal Party and its coalition partner, the National Party, have been responsible for:

• Opposition to Climate Action: Persistent resistance to renewable energy projects, favouring fossil fuels.
• Housing Crisis Neglect: Focus on tax incentives for property investors rather than addressing housing affordability.
• Cultural Division: Rhetoric on immigration and gender issues that alienates moderates.
• Robodebt Scandal: An unlawful and harmful debt recovery scheme that destroyed people’s lives and eroded public trust.
• Cost of Living Crisis: Policies favouring corporate tax cuts over relief for households.
• Integrity Avoidance: Resistance to a federal anti-corruption commission, undermining transparency.

Meanwhile, Labor has struggled to clearly differentiate itself. Despite wins like raising the minimum wage, cheaper childcare, and legislating emissions reduction targets, Labor remains tied to vested interests. Its approval of new coal plants, failure to confront media monopolisation and ban gambling advertising, and attempts to remain neutral on contentious issues send a weak and uninspiring message. In politics, you have to pick a side; neutrality emboldens the oppressors.

The Community Independent Movement: A Model of Real Democracy

Amid this political disillusionment, Australia’s community-backed independents have emerged as a refreshing and effective alternative. The community independents focus on core issues that resonate with Australians, such as climate action, integrity in politics, equality, prosperity, and the common good. They have shown that when politicians prioritise communities over vested interests, they can deliver tangible results for real people.

This momentum is growing, with 19 Community Independent candidates already confirmed for the next federal election, expected to surpass 20+. Platforms like Juice Media amplify their impact, promoting the “Not Shit Candidates” list to connect voters with credible, community-driven leaders.

The Community Independent MPs – Zoe Daniel, Monique Ryan, Helen Haines, Allegra Spender, Zali Steggall, Sophie Scamps, Kate Chaney, and Kylea Tink and Community Independent Senator David Pocock have championed initiatives that directly benefit Australians:

• Advocating for Whistleblower Protections: Championed a federal whistleblower protection authority to safeguard those who expose corruption and misconduct, aiming to restore public trust in government institutions.
• Establishing the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC): Helen Haines played a key role in getting the NACC legislated, pushing for accountability and transparency in government. While a significant step, Haines and other Independents continue to advocate for stronger powers and protections to make it more effective.
• Addressing the Housing Crisis: Advocated for policies to increase rental stock, support shared equity schemes, and make housing more affordable for all Australians.
• Securing a 43% Emissions Reduction Floor by 2030: Zoe Daniel played a pivotal role in legislating a minimum 43% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, pushing for stronger climate action and transitioning to renewable energy.
• HECS Debt Relief: Advocated for reforms to reduce the financial burden of HECS-HELP debt, particularly in light of rising indexation rates that disproportionately affect younger Australians.
• Boosting Women’s Wages: Campaigned for policies to close the gender pay gap, focusing on improving wages in female-dominated industries like healthcare, education, and social services.
• Tackling Eating Disorders: Zoe Daniel advocated for better funding and accessibility for eating disorder prevention and treatment programs, addressing a critical mental health crisis.
• Promoting Government Transparency: Renounced exclusive perks such as VIP airline lounge memberships, emphasising integrity and accountability in public office.
• Enhancing Environmental Protections: Worked to reform environmental laws to better safeguard natural resources and biodiversity while combating climate change.
• Fairer Taxation: Pushed for profitable corporations to pay their fair share of taxes, funding essential public services and reducing economic inequality.
• Investing in Education and Healthcare: Advocated for increased funding for public schools, hospitals, and regional healthcare services to improve equity and accessibility.

These initiatives highlight the transformative work of the Community Independents, particularly their commitment to tackling corruption, advancing equity, addressing the climate crisis, and prioritising the well-being of everyday Australians over vested interests. While progress has been made, they continue to push for stronger reforms to ensure lasting change.

Navigating Digital Realms: Reaching the Next Generation of Influencers

Legacy media remains a significant issue in shaping public narratives, but it has increasingly betrayed its journalistic standards by siding with far-right groups and vested interests that have no desire for a fair and just society. Instead of holding power to account, legacy outlets often amplify the voices of those in the billionaire class who seek to manipulate political discourse to serve their own agendas. And these billionaires like Musk and Gina Rinehart no longer hide their intent. This same class uses both mainstream media and big tech social platforms to mislead people into voting against their best interests.

This is evident in how billionaires spend vast sums reshaping platforms like Twitter into far-right echo chambers, prioritising divisive narratives that erode trust and polarise communities. Now, as more people gravitate toward alternative platforms like Bluesky, these power players are panicking over the potential loss of their control over public dialogue.

Meanwhile, many younger Australians no longer engage with mainstream outlets, instead inhabiting digital realms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, and emerging platforms like Bluesky. These spaces are where culture is shaped, opinions are formed, and peer-driven narratives thrive.

To reach these audiences, progressive movements must craft messaging that resonates emotionally and aligns with their values, leveraging the tools and formats they consume daily. The far-right in the U.S. demonstrated how effective such strategies can be, using algorithms to amplify fear-based and identity-driven content. Similarly, authoritarian states like China and Russia have mastered the art of infiltrating fragmented online communities to maintain influence and suppress dissent.

In Australia, progressive movements must recognise the power of these digital ecosystems and counter disinformation with authentic, engaging narratives that inspire hope, build trust, and connect with people’s lived experiences. By reclaiming these spaces, we can challenge the manipulative tactics of legacy media and far-right actors, ensuring that the voices of ordinary Australians are heard and valued.

Building a Narrative to Counter Extremism

The success of the Community Independents – so called Teals – offers a roadmap for reaching Australians with a clear, resonant message that avoids the extremes of far-right rhetoric. Drawing lessons from grassroots campaigns globally, including insights from the Building a Progressive Tech Narrative Ecosystem whitepaper, the key strategies for engaging Australians include:

1. Emotional Resonance: Craft messages that inspire hope, fairness, and community spirit rather than fear or division.
2. Decentralised Storytelling: Empower local voices and micro-media platforms like podcasts to connect with diverse audiences authentically.
3. Memorable Messaging: Simplify complex policies into digestible, actionable ideas that emphasise tangible benefits.
4. Tech-Driven Outreach: Use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for hyper-targeted, creative campaigns that infiltrate ideological echo chambers with sophistication and empathy.

By focusing on these approaches, the Community Independents and other progressive movements can counteract extremist narratives and build a decentralised, emotionally engaging campaign ecosystem.

Public Squalor, Private Splendour: A Call to Action

The Community Independents’ vision challenges the neoliberal status quo. They advocate for restoring public trust by addressing systemic inequities: ensuring that profitable corporations pay their fair share of taxes, investing in public infrastructure, and creating systems that are accessible, efficient, and humane.

As Alex Fien’s research highlights, Australians aspire to both public and private splendour. They want functional public schools, well-maintained roads, and accessible healthcare, but they also want the opportunity to achieve personal prosperity. The progressive promise must embrace both.

A Movement for the World to Watch

The success of community independents in Australia is not just a political anomaly; it is a model of grassroots democracy that could inspire other nations. While major parties falter – Labor by trying to stay neutral and the Liberal Party by veering into far-right rhetoric – the Teals demonstrate that real change comes from listening to and representing communities.

This movement is not just about holding power; it is about restoring faith in democracy itself. Australians want their government to deliver results for the common good – climate action, fair wages, affordable living, and strong public services. The Community Independents are making these aspirations tangible and actionable.

This is not just a moment; it’s a movement – one the rest of the world would do well to watch and learn from. By prioritising community voices over corporate or partisan interests, Community Independents offer a compelling vision for better politics, better lives, and a fairer society for all Australians.

Here’s the growing list of Not Shit Candidates. You know what to do.

This article was originally published on Sue Barrett.