One Nation Claims Third South Australian Lower House Seat as Minor Party Surge Continues
Former immigration detention worker Jason Virgo wins MacKillop as One Nation cements its presence in state parliament
The result caps a strong showing for One Nation in South Australia, where the party has capitalised on discontent in regional areas over cost of living pressures, fuel prices, and what voters perceive as neglect from major parties.
The MacKillop electorate covers a large swathe of the state's south-east, traditionally conservative territory that had been held by the Liberal Party. Virgo's win suggests One Nation is making inroads not just in Labor heartlands but in seats the Coalition once considered safe.
Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor used Monday's politics to firmly shut down suggestions from shadow defence minister Andrew Hastie about a gas export tax, declaring that "you don't get more gas by raising taxes." The exchange highlighted tensions within the Coalition over energy policy as fuel prices continue to bite.
Analysis
Why This Matters
Three lower house seats gives One Nation genuine influence in South Australian politics. The party can no longer be dismissed as a protest vote in the upper house — it is building a real presence where legislation is made.
Background
One Nation has historically struggled to convert Senate and upper house success into lower house seats. South Australia's result breaks that pattern and may embolden the party in other states.
Key Perspectives
The major parties will need to reckon with what is driving voters to One Nation in regional Australia. Cost of living, fuel prices, and a sense of being left behind by metropolitan-focused policy are common themes.
What to Watch
Whether One Nation can translate this state-level success into federal gains at the next election. The party's growing footprint in South Australia could serve as a template for other regional strongholds.