Former Liberal senator Hollie Hughes has defected from the Liberal Party to join Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.

The move signals a shift in the Australian federal political landscape as high-profile figures move toward right-wing populism. This defection highlights growing ideological friction within the conservative wing of the Liberal Party.

Hughes was joined in the move by former Liberal vice-president Teena McQueen [1]. In total, two former Liberal figures have made the transition to One Nation [1].

Hughes said she aligns with the policies of the new party. During an interview, she said that her voting record had already mirrored that of the One Nation leader. "I actually can’t remember ever not voting really on the same side as Pauline," Hughes said [3].

She said that she has been a member of the party for a short period and has consistently voted along the same lines as Hanson [3]. The defection comes as a surprise to some observers, though Hughes said her alignment with the party's platform was long-standing.

Angus Taylor, representing the Liberal side, responded to the news of the departures. "It's their choice," Taylor said [2].

The shift follows a pattern of internal debate regarding the direction of the Liberal Party's conservative base. By joining One Nation, Hughes and McQueen are moving toward a party known for its more stringent views on immigration, and national identity.

“"I actually can’t remember ever not voting really on the same side as Pauline."”

The defection of Hollie Hughes and Teena McQueen suggests a fragmentation of the center-right coalition in Australia. When established figures from the Liberal Party migrate to One Nation, it indicates that the mainstream conservative platform may no longer satisfy the most right-leaning elements of its membership, potentially shifting the balance of power in future federal elections.