Angus Taylor rules out electorate ‘carve-up’ deal with One Nation

Liberal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor ruled out a seat-carve-up deal with One Nation, despite pressure from South Australian MP Tony Pasin. Pasin argued the Liberal Party should collaborate with One Nation to avoid splitting conservative votes and ensure a right-wing government. He framed the choice as either allowing One Nation to undermine the Liberals or working together to secure a conservative victory. Taylor rejected the idea during an ABC interview, stating the Liberals would focus on opposing Labor’s policies—higher taxes, housing shortages, unchecked immigration, and energy failures—rather than negotiating seat allocations. His stance contrasts with One Nation’s surge in popularity, as recent polls show the party leading in primary vote support. A Redbridge/Accenture poll from last month projected One Nation winning up to 59 seats in a May federal election, surpassing the Coalition in every state except NSW, Victoria, and the Northern Territory. Under this scenario, the Nationals would lose all House of Representatives seats, leaving the Liberals with just seven MPs, while One Nation would become the opposition. The debate highlights growing tensions within the conservative bloc as One Nation’s rise reshapes Australia’s political landscape. The party’s momentum has forced the Liberals to clarify their strategy, with Taylor emphasizing policy over electoral alliances.