Explore the pivotal 2025 Tasmanian Senate race between Jacqui Lambie and Lee Hanson, highlighting key issues and political dynamics.


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The 2025 Australian federal election has brought Tasmania into the national spotlight, featuring a compelling Senate race between incumbent Senator Jacqui Lambie and One Nation's Lee Hanson, daughter of party leader Pauline Hanson. This contest underscores the broader ideological divisions shaping Australian politics.

🔥 Pauline Hanson's Campaign Against Jacqui Lambie

Pauline Hanson has been vocally critical of Senator Lambie, accusing her of aligning too closely with Labor and the Greens. Hanson contends that Lambie's positions, particularly her opposition to Tasmania's $1.46 billion salmon industry, have alienated conservative voters and jeopardized local employment. Hanson stated, "A lot of people are not happy with Jacqui Lambie and have no intentions of voting for her again."

👩‍👧 Lee Hanson Enters the Fray

Lee Hanson, Pauline's daughter, is contesting the Senate seat in Tasmania under the One Nation banner. A resident of Tasmania for 13 years with a background in human resources, Lee positions herself as a moderate conservative alternative to Lambie. She emphasizes her commitment to local issues, including opposing the proposed federally-funded Hobart AFL stadium and advocating for the return of profits from renewable energy exports to benefit Tasmanians directly. 

🗳️ Election Dynamics and Senate Composition

The election results have significant implications for the Senate's composition. Labor is projected to hold at least 28 seats in the 76-seat upper house, potentially easing the passage of legislation with the support of the Greens, who are expected to retain their 11 seats. This shift could sideline crossbenchers like Jacqui Lambie, whose influence was more pronounced in the previous parliament.

🔍 Key Takeaways

  • Labor's Strength: Labor's projected Senate gains may reduce the influence of independent senators like Lambie.

  • One Nation's Momentum: Pauline Hanson's party has seen a significant rise in support, particularly in Tasmania, bolstering Lee Hanson's campaign.

  • Local Issues at Forefront: Debates over the salmon industry and infrastructure projects like the Hobart AFL stadium are central to the campaign narratives.

FAQ

Key issues include the future of Tasmania's salmon industry, the proposed Hobart AFL stadium, and broader debates over local economic development and federal support.

One Nation has experienced a significant rise in support, earning 6.2% of the national vote and achieving a 1.2% national swing, with notable gains in Tasmania.

Senator Lambie has expressed concerns about the environmental impact of the salmon industry, leading to criticism from opponents who argue this stance threatens local jobs.

Lee Hanson is the daughter of Pauline Hanson and a One Nation Senate candidate in Tasmania. She has a background in human resources and has lived in Tasmania for 13 years.

With Labor potentially holding at least 28 seats and the Greens retaining 11, the need for support from independents like Jacqui Lambie may diminish, reducing their influence. 

The proposed federally-funded Hobart AFL stadium has become a contentious issue, with debates over its economic viability and impact on local communities influencing voter sentiment.

The contest between Lambie and Hanson symbolizes the national debate between centrist independents and right-wing populists, highlighting differing visions for Australia's future.

The race is closely contested, with the final outcome likely to depend on preference flows and minor party support, making it one of the most watched contests in the 2025 election.

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