One Nation hunts down the Coalition, but voters give Taylor some ground
Sydney Morning Herald
by James MassolaFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
One Nation has surged in popularity, matching the Coalition for the first time under new leader Angus Taylor. With support at 23% each, both groups are neck-and-neck, signaling a significant shift in Australia’s political landscape. The poll, conducted after Taylor took over from Sussan Ley as Liberal Party leader, reveals that voters are willing to give Taylor a chance to turn things around. Although One Nation gained ground during Ley’s tenure, the Coalition saw a slight rebound under Taylor, though overall support for both major parties remains unstable.
The findings highlight a growing divide in Australian politics, with 51% of voters still open to choosing between the two traditional parties, while 49% are exploring alternatives like One Nation or minor parties. This shift underscores the challenges facing Taylor and the Coalition as they aim to regain momentum against rising support for Hanson’s party. Key issues driving voter sentiment include cost of living concerns (a top priority for 92% of respondents) and immigration policies, which Taylor has prioritized.
Labor remains the dominant force with 32% primary vote, capitalizing on widespread dissatisfaction with the opposition’s handling of economic issues. The poll also revealed a sharp decline in support for major parties over the past year, with voters increasingly turning to alternatives like One Nation and independent candidates. This trend reflects broader voter frustration with traditional political structures and their ability to address pressing concerns.
Resolve Political Monitor’s data shows that Taylor’s leadership has slightly improved the Coalition’s standing compared to Ley’s final days but highlights the daunting task ahead. Experts warn that Taylor needs to significantly boost his party’s support to compete with Labor. Meanwhile, One Nation’s rapid rise positions it as a formidable player in Australia’s conservative political arena.
This shifting political landscape matters for readers interested in global and Australian politics, as it signals a potential reordering of power dynamics in the country. The poll findings underscore the challenges faced by traditional parties and the growing influence of alternative groups like One Nation. As Taylor works to stabilize the Coalition and address voter concerns, the outcome could reshape Australia’s political future and its ability to tackle critical issues like cost of living and immigration.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/15/2026