Four Corners investigates One Nation in Behind the Orange Wave on ABC – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation faces fresh scrutiny as Four Corners examines the money, management and powerful relationships behind the party’s renewed political influence.
Behind the Orange Wave, reported by Steve Cannane, airs Monday at 8.30pm. The investigation asks how voter disenchantment and high-profile financial support helped move One Nation from the political fringe to a position where it threatens Coalition-held regional seats.
The episode is timely because the party’s influence now extends beyond its own electoral prospects. Its policies and campaign tactics are shaping debate across the broader conservative vote, making questions about its internal structure relevant well outside One Nation.
Former insiders raise questions
Former officials and members speak to the program about what they describe as poor financial management and limited internal democracy. Their accounts focus on the control exercised by Hanson and One Nation national director James Ashby.
The investigation considers whether the party’s organisation is equipped for the responsibilities that would come with greater parliamentary power. That question sits alongside its growing appeal to voters dissatisfied with the major parties.
Examining Gina Rinehart’s support
Mining magnate Gina Rinehart’s public support for One Nation is already known. Four Corners examines whether her influence extends beyond fundraising and gifts, and what that relationship means for a party seeking to expand its representation.
One Nation refused to participate in the program and banned the ABC from its press conferences. Cannane nevertheless found an opportunity to put questions directly to Hanson.
Is One Nation ready for power?
The episode brings together the party’s electoral momentum, its internal operations and its links to wealthy supporters. It ultimately asks whether One Nation is ready for the greater power it is seeking and what its rise could mean for the Coalition in regional Australia.
FOUR CORNERS: BEHIND THE ORANGE WAVE AIRS MONDAY, 28 SEPTEMBER AT 8.30PM ON ABC AND ABC IVIEW.
For more TV Central ABC news, head here. Watch current and past investigations on the official Four Corners page on ABC iview.
