As Australia heads toward a pivotal election, this episode talks to the evolving political landscape. Our three ex-political staffers from rival parties unpack key political strategies and campaign tactics, from debate dynamics and media messaging to the rise of social media influencers in political discourse. Minor parties and their challenges in gaining visibility are explored, alongside the increasing importance of engaging Gen Z and millennial voters. The conversation also touches on the role of government relations, bipartisan advocacy, and how campaign launches shape public perception. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in politics, voter engagement, and election trends in Australia. Connect with us: Annie O’Rourke Dr. Rachel Howard Larissa Brown Kylea Tink Links: 89 Degrees East Politiv References: https://greens.org.au/news/media-release/greens-call-abc-be-legislated-election-debate-host https://www.statista.com/statistics/588470/australia-news-sources-age/ https://www.acma.gov.au/articles/2024-02/acma-research-reveals-australian-news-consumption-trends https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-25/election-2025-gen-z-millennial-outnumber-baby-boomers/104641230 https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/youthquake-to-shake-up-2025-federal-election-as-millenial-and-gen-z-voters-outnumber-boomers-and-gen-xers-for-the-first-time 🔖 Australian politics, election strategies, political campaigns, debates, government relations, voter engagement, Gen Z voters, political influencers, social media in politics, campaign media, election Australia, minor parties, political communication, political tactics, campaign launches   Key Takeaways The Australian political environment is shifting with new campaign strategies and voter outreach methods. Well-prepared debates are essential for candidates to connect with the electorate. Minor parties face structural challenges in accessing mainstream media coverage and debates. Influencers and digital creators are reshaping how politics is consumed and understood, particularly among younger voters. Campaign launches are crucial moments for setting the narrative and media tone. Gen Z and millennial engagement is vital for the success of any election campaign. Government relations should remain bipartisan and consistent between election cycles. Traditional media is being supplemented—and in some cases, replaced—by digital platforms in political communication. The outcome of election day will significantly impact future government policy and public direction. This election cycle presents both unprecedented challenges and new opportunities for political engagement. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to the Political Landscape 03:06 — Election Strategies and Tactics 05:56 — Debate Dynamics and Candidate Preparation 08:52 — The Role of Minor Parties in Elections 12:08 — Influencers and the New Media Landscape 14:59 — Campaign Launches and Political Messaging 18:11 — Engaging Younger Voters 21:05 — The Importance of Government Relations 23:53 — Election Day and Its Implications 27:01 — Closing Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of our Australian politics podcast ‘Blue, Red, Green and Everything in Between', we dive into the evolving 2025 election campaign. From the impact of swing voters and the power of political branding, to the rise of community independents and growing concerns about the cost of living, our hosts unpack the shifting political landscape. Learn how policy changes, leadership dynamics, and election strategies are shaping voter sentiment and political engagement across the country with special guest Kylea Tink, Independent Federal Member for North Sydney. Connect with us: Annie O’Rourke Dr. Rachel Howard Larissa Brown Kylea Tink Links: 89 Degrees East Politiv Key Takeaways: Campaign season is heating up with significant backflips on major policies. Swing voters are increasingly influenced by a leader’s perceived trustworthiness. A leader’s personal brand is a key factor for major political parties. Greens voters tend to prioritise party branding over individual leadership. High-profile policy reversals can shift momentum in an election campaign. The cost of living crisis is emerging as a defining issue for voters. Community independents are reshaping traditional party politics. Strategic collaboration among independents boosts their electoral influence. Boosting voter engagement is critical to the future of democratic participation. Timing of election launches is often driven by budget and media strategies. Chapters: 00:00 – Campaign Season Insights 02:06 – Swing Voters and Leadership Dynamics 04:40 – Brand Importance in Political Parties 06:14 – Policy Backflips and Election Strategies 10:28 – Cost of Living as a Central Issue 17:20 – Community Independence and Political Engagement 24:27 – Collaboration Among Independents 28:44 – Future of Community Independents 30:16 – Election Launch Strategies #AustralianPolitics #ElectionCampaign #SwingVoters #PoliticalBranding #CommunityIndependents #CostOfLiving #PolicyBackflip #LeadershipDynamics #VoterEngagement #ElectionStrategies

In this episode, three ex-political staffers talk  into the fast-moving landscape of Australian politics, unpacking the key themes shaping the current election campaign. From political advertising and campaign messaging to the growing influence of voter sentiment, we break down how the major parties—Labor, Liberal, Greens, and Teal independents—are positioning themselves. We explore the role of protests, the international ripple effects of the Trump factor, and how hot-button issues like climate change and the cost of living are dominating the conversation. Whether you're a seasoned political watcher or just tuning in, this episode provides a timely lens on the forces at play in the lead-up to the polls. References: Biggest Ads this week: https://polidashboard.org/  Ad spend this week: https://favstats.github.io/au25/  All the Ads this week: https://www.facebook.com/ads/library    📌 Key Takeaways Election campaigns evolve quickly—what’s true one week may shift the next. Political advertising offers a glimpse into internal polling and party priorities. Opposition parties often capitalise on government blunders to gain traction. Public protests affect media coverage but don’t always shift undecided voters. Renewable energy is front and centre, appealing to cost- and climate-conscious voters. Labor is zeroing in on cost of living pressures in its campaign messaging. The Greens are championing renters’ rights and positioning against Peter Dutton. Teal independents are disrupting the traditional two-party narrative. Global politics—especially Trump’s influence—are shaping local voter sentiment. One wrong move can derail a candidate—campaign missteps are costly. 🗂️ Chapters 00:00 — Election Season Heats Up 02:05 — Campaign Strategies and Tactics 03:40 — Political Advertising Insights 06:32 — The Role of Media in Campaigns 10:33 — Protests and Political Climate 14:48 — Energy Policies and Voter Sentiment 17:29 — Labor's Campaign Focus 20:38 — The Greens' Positioning 23:18 — Teal Independents and Their Impact 28:51 — Voter Sentiment and the Trump Factor 39:55 — Campaign Missteps and Public Perception

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of Budget Week in Australian politics, discussing: The budget as a democratic tool The unexpected announcement of tax cuts The evolving role of media and influencers in political discourse Opposition strategies and youth-focused budget allocations The implications of Dutton’s budget reply Full disclosure: This episode was recorded on Thursday, 27th March at 8 AM, just 24 hours before the election was called on Friday, 28th March. Don’t worry—our next episode will cover the announcement in full from all three major parties’ perspectives! Connect with us: Annie O’Rourke Dr. Rachel Howard Fleur Anderson Links: 89 Degrees East Politiv References: Coalition to halve fuel excise Fact-check: Is the Coalition Australia’s second-highest taxing government? Key Takeaways: ✅ The budget serves as a tool for democracy, showcasing government priorities. ✅ Unexpected tax cuts can shift political dynamics significantly. ✅ Media strategies for budget coverage are meticulously planned in advance. ✅ Influencers are increasingly shaping political discourse. ✅ Opposition strategies must align with public sentiment on economic management. ✅ Youth-focused budget allocations reflect shifting voter demographics. ✅ Traditional media is adapting to the rise of digital platforms. ✅ Budget decisions often have a fleeting impact in public discourse. ✅ Dutton's budget reply is crucial in setting the tone for the upcoming election. Chapters: ⏱ 00:00 – Introduction to Budget Week Dynamics ⏱ 03:12 – The Significance of the Budget in Democracy ⏱ 06:01 – The Unexpected Tax Cut Surprise ⏱ 08:53 – Media Strategies and Budget Night Coverage ⏱ 12:08 – Influencers and New Media in Political Discourse ⏱ 14:51 – Opposition Strategies and Economic Management ⏱ 17:53 – Youth Focus in Budget Allocations ⏱ 21:03 – The Role of Traditional Media vs. Influencers ⏱ 24:07 – Dutton's Budget Reply and Future Implications

In this episode of Blue, Red, Green and Everything in Between, our hosts discuss the current political landscape in Australia, focusing on the momentum of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (‘Albo’), the strategies of Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, and the shifting voting trends among young men. They explore the complexities of political campaigning, the importance of leadership diversity, and the often-overlooked role of staffers in shaping political narratives. The conversation highlights the challenges and dynamics of modern politics, particularly in the lead-up to an election. Connect with us: Annie O’Rourke Dr. Rachel Howard Larissa Brown Links: 89 Degrees East Politiv References: Musk: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHMG9LSKBSo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==  Lad Vote: https://www.news.com.au/national/federal-election/the-lad-vote-surprise-polling-trend-shows-young-aussie-men-moving-to-the-right/news-story/64421a75c7c4748ed36b4ed0fd8f7078 OmniCompass: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/20/australians-have-lost-hope-in-the-fair-go-with-profound-implications-for-the-election Key Takeaways: Momentum is crucial in politics and can shift quickly. Dutton’s strategy focuses on suburban swing voters. Minor parties face unique challenges in gaining traction. Campaign teams often need to create a narrative of winnability. The role of staffers is vital in political campaigns. Young men are increasingly leaning towards conservative leadership. Political messaging must resonate with current economic concerns. Diversity in leadership can prevent echo chambers. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Political Dynamics 02:37 – Momentum in Politics 06:51 – Understanding Dutton’s Strategy 10:54 – The Complexity of Political Campaigning 15:43 – Shifts in Young Male Voting Trends 21:44 – The Role of Leadership and Diversity 27:05 – The Importance of Staff in Politics 30:52 – The Luffy Award and Conclusion

In this episode, our hosts Annie O’Rourke, Rachel Howard, and Larissa Brown discuss the current political landscape in Australia, focusing on the impact of Donald Trump on local politics, public sentiment towards the established political system, and the strategies political parties are employing to engage voters. They delve into the significance of the upcoming election, the challenges of budget preparation, and the role of Senate estimates in holding the government accountable. The conversation emphasises the importance of open dialogue across political divides and the need for a nuanced understanding of voter demographics and issues. Connect with us: Annie O’Rourke Dr. Rachel Howard Larissa Brown Links: 89 Degrees East Politiv References:  https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/dutton-understands-labor-voters-better-than-albanese-20231019-p5edjm https://trends.whotargets.me/dashboard/countries https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/one-ally-has-turned-on-trump-will-albanese-and-dutton-dare-to-take-a-swing-20250313-p5lj7x.html https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-12/australia-reacts-us-steel-tariffs-poor-friend-partner/105040948  https://www.trademinister.gov.au/minister/steven-ciobo/media-release/australia-welcomes-us-steel-exemption Key Takeaways: The political landscape in Australia is heavily influenced by external factors, including the US political scene. Cost of living remains the top concern for Australian voters in the upcoming election. Political parties are targeting specific demographics to maximise their electoral chances. Trump’s influence is felt in Australia, with some viewing him as a cautionary tale. The dynamics of political engagement are shifting, with more Australians discussing politics than before. Budget preparation adds pressure to political staffers during election campaigns. Senate estimates serve as a crucial tool for political accountability in Australia. Open dialogue across political divides is essential for a healthy democracy. Public sentiment is increasingly critical of the established political system. 🔖 Australian politics, Trump impact, election strategies, voter demographics, budget preparation, Senate estimates, political engagement, public sentiment, political accountability, political discourse. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Political Landscape Overview 03:06 – Impact of Trump on Australian Politics 05:59 – Public Sentiment and Political Engagement 09:07 – Targeting Voter Demographics 11:50 – Election Strategies and Campaign Dynamics 14:51 – Budget Preparation and Political Pressures 18:11 – Senate Estimates and Accountability 20:50 – Conclusion and Reflections on Political Discourse

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Blue, Red, Green and Everything in Between, where three ex-political staffers from rival parties spill the tea on what really goes on behind the scenes. As Australia gears up for an election, they chat about their (often chaotic) journeys into politics, the highs and lows of campaign life, the power of trust and communication, and why staffers deserve more credit. They also tackle big topics like the cost of living crisis, the impact of social media, and whether negative campaigning is just too effective to quit. Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-o-rourke-b458bb123/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-howard/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brownlarissa Links: https://www.89degreeseast.com/ https://politiv.com.au   Key Takeaways: Politics is messy, but dialogue makes it better. Your family can accidentally shape your political career. Trust, strategy, and a good meme can win (or lose) elections. Women in politics? Still a fight worth fighting. The cost of living crisis: the election issue nobody can ignore. Political staffers are the real MVPs (but rarely get the glory). Negative campaigns work—unfortunately. Coalitions across party lines? More common than you think. Tune in for a mix of insight, war stories, and a few laughs.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Political Perspectives 02:56 Personal Journeys into Politics 05:59 Campaign Dynamics and Strategies 08:50 The Role of Women in Politics 12:12 Trust and Communication in Politics 15:00 The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns 18:05 Cost of Living Crisis and Election Strategies 21:05 The Importance of Staffers in Political Success 24:07 Looking Ahead: Future Episodes and Topics