The Australian political system is built on a delicate balance of power, where the influence of “kingmakers”—those who hold sway over party nominations and election outcomes—can determine who sits in Parliament and who leads the nation. In recent years, the role has become increasingly prominent, particularly as parties grapple with internal divisions, leadership challenges, and the need for decisive candidates. The 2018 election, marked by a high-stakes contest for the Liberal Party leadership, highlighted the power of kingmakers in a way that reshaped political dynamics across the country.
The Rise of the Kingmaker in Australian Politics
Traditionally, party leaders were chosen through internal elections, but the rise of kingmakers—often former ministers, high-profile backbenchers, or even independent strategists—has altered the process. These figures wield influence by controlling access to key decision-makers, funding, and media narratives. In 2018, the Liberal Party’s leadership race became a battleground for influence, with Malcolm Turnbull’s eventual defeat and the subsequent appointment of Scott Morrison as prime minister partly attributed to the backing of a small but powerful group of strategists who ensured his nomination.
The term “kingmaker” itself has roots in British politics, where figures like Lord Salisbury and Lord Curzon once held sway over royal appointments. In Australia, the concept has evolved, with modern kingmakers often operating behind the scenes, leveraging financial resources, media connections, and even personal relationships with party leaders. The 2018 election revealed how these players can turn the tide of an election, as seen when Turnbull’s defeat was partly due to his perceived lack of support from key factions within the party.
The Mechanics of Influence: How Kingmakers Operate
Kingmakers in Australia typically operate through a combination of financial backing, strategic alliances, and political leverage. For instance, former Liberal Party minister Joe Hockey played a significant role in securing Scott Morrison’s leadership, partly by mobilising support from business and conservative factions. Similarly, in the ALP, figures like Bill Shorten’s allies in the party’s left wing have been known to influence nominations, ensuring candidates align with their ideological priorities.
One of the most notable examples of a kingmaker’s power came in 2018 when Malcolm Turnbull faced a no-confidence motion in his own party. His downfall was partly due to the intervention of a small but influential group of backbenchers and strategists who, through careful campaigning, ensured his removal. This incident underscored how kingmakers can dictate the trajectory of a political party, even when they are not officially part of the leadership structure.
- The Liberal Party’s 2018 leadership race saw Malcolm Turnbull lose to Scott Morrison, partly due to kingmaker-backed campaigns.
- Former minister Joe Hockey played a key role in securing Morrison’s leadership nomination.
- Independent strategists often control access to party leaders, influencing nominations and election outcomes.
- Financial backing and media influence are common tools used by kingmakers in Australian politics.
- The 2018 election highlighted how kingmakers can turn the tide of an election through targeted support.
The Broader Implications for Australian Democracy
The rise of kingmakers raises questions about the transparency and accountability of Australia’s political system. While these figures can provide stability during leadership crises, their influence can also lead to the politicisation of party processes, where decisions are made behind closed doors rather than through open debate. Critics argue that this system undermines the democratic principle of free and fair elections, where candidates are chosen based on merit and public support.
However, supporters of kingmakers contend that they provide a necessary check on political instability, ensuring that leadership changes are not driven by short-term populism but by strategic considerations. The 2018 election, in particular, demonstrated how kingmakers can shape the political landscape in ways that benefit both parties and the broader community. Yet, as Australia continues to grapple with the challenges of modern politics, the role of kingmakers will likely remain a contentious issue, shaping the future of leadership in the country.
For those interested in understanding how political power is wielded in Australia, the 2018 election offers a fascinating case study. Those looking to engage further with the dynamics of kingmakers in politics can explore the strategies and alliances that defined the period, as well as the broader implications for democratic governance. kingmaker sign up here provides insights into the evolving role of these influential figures in shaping Australia’s political future.