Two high-profile former members of the Liberal Party have defected to One Nation [1].
The move signals a potential shift in the conservative landscape in South Australia as One Nation attempts to position itself as a primary alternative for right-wing voters. By attracting established political figures, the party seeks to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional base and challenge the Liberal Party's grip on conservative electorate segments.
Lee Hanson, the One Nation National Executive Manager, said the party is the "home of real conservatives." This recruitment drive comes as the party prepares for the South Australian state election, which took place on March 21, 2026 [2].
Hanson said One Nation is the only body driving change and that the organization is attracting the right talent who want to stand with them. The party believes these defectors are aligned with a change-driven agenda aimed at reshaping the political direction of the region.
While some reports focused on a single defection, other records indicate two high-profile members made the switch [1]. This transition is viewed as a real-time test for One Nation's ability to integrate former mainstream conservatives into its ranks during a competitive election cycle.
The Liberal Party faces potential humiliation in South Australia, where One Nation has historically found less friendly ground than in other regions. The arrival of experienced political operatives could provide the party with the strategic expertise needed to make deeper inroads into the state's conservative voting blocs.
“One Nation is the home of real conservatives.”
The defection of established Liberal figures to One Nation suggests a growing fragmentation within Australia's center-right politics. If One Nation can successfully pivot from a protest party to a professionalized political vehicle by absorbing mainstream talent, it may permanently erode the Liberal Party's dominance over conservative voters in South Australia.
