Polity & Governance
Barnaby Joyce calls Australia’s One Nation Party 'one of the gayest parties'
What happened
Australia’s former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce sparked controversy by calling the One Nation party 'one of the gayest parties in Australia' amid renewed scrutiny of the party’s internal dynamics. The remarks followed the surfacing of comments by a former One Nation candidate, reigniting debates over the party’s public image and inclusivity.
Key facts
bullet: Barnaby Joyce made the comment on August 12, 2026, in response to reports about a former One Nation candidate’s remarks.
bullet: The statement was made during a media interview, where Joyce referred to the party’s internal culture.
bullet: A former One Nation candidate had previously made comments deemed controversial by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
bullet: The remarks by Joyce have drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his openness and others criticizing the timing.
Context
bullet: One Nation is a right-wing political party in Australia, founded in 1997 by Pauline Hanson. bullet: The party has historically been associated with conservative and nationalist policies, including opposition to immigration and multiculturalism. bullet: Barnaby Joyce served as Deputy Prime Minister of Australia from 2016 to 2018 under the Liberal-National Coalition government. bullet: The party has faced criticism in the past over statements by its members regarding LGBTQ+ issues.