The recent turmoil within One Nation's rapid national expansion has left many questioning the party's future. This article delves into the inner workings of the party's ambitious rollout, exploring the reasons behind its sudden dissolution and the implications for its grassroots movement.
The Rise and Fall of One Nation's Branches
One Nation's plan to establish branches in every federal electorate was an audacious move, positioning these branches as the heart of its grassroots strategy. However, less than a year into this expansion, the party finds itself in disarray, forced to dissolve and re-establish its network due to 'significant risks'.
Uncovering the Risks
An internal review, led by the party's new general manager, Kelvin Morton, revealed inconsistencies and vulnerabilities in the structure of these new branches. The review found that some branches lacked proper establishment minutes, had non-compliant election processes, or were vulnerable to legal challenges. Morton's directive, issued in April, emphasized the need for a thorough reconstitution to ensure the party's survival.
The Iron Grip on Free Speech
What makes this particularly intriguing is the contrast between One Nation's policy platform, which champions free speech, and its recent actions. The party has imposed strict gag orders on its members, requiring non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and a 'media silence' policy. This move has upset some members, given the party's stance on free expression. The directive also highlights the party's fear of administrative oversights, especially with an election looming.
Tight Control and Vetting
One Nation's head office is exerting tight control over its expanding network. The vetting process, known as ONTRACE, subjects committee members to a 10-year 'clean record' test, with results that cannot be discussed. Financial rules dictate that all funds are managed centrally, and media rules prohibit independent social media pages, instead directing members to share content from official party channels.
A Chaotic Head Office
Previous reports have highlighted the chaos within One Nation's headquarters, with high staff turnover and concerns over public funding management. The party's attempts to control media coverage, including banning prominent media outlets from campaign events, have also drawn criticism. The recent directive and the dissolution of non-compliant branches further illustrate the party's desire for centralized control.
Conclusion
One Nation's rapid expansion has hit a major roadblock, and the party's future hangs in the balance. The internal review has exposed vulnerabilities and inconsistencies, leading to a re-evaluation of its structure. Personally, I believe this episode highlights the challenges of rapid growth and the importance of robust administrative processes. It will be interesting to see how One Nation navigates these challenges as it approaches what it considers the 'most critical moment in Australian political history'.
