In this episode, we dive deep into the personal and professional stories behind Australian Election Day. Our hosts reflect on what it means to participate in democracy, recounting the energy, pressure, and unpredictability of the big day. From the buzz of the tally room to navigating election logistics in the campaign’s final week, this episode explores the emotional and strategic layers of a national vote. You'll also hear insights into polling accuracy, voter behaviour, and the growing challenge of reaching soft voters in a changing political landscape.

Connect with us:

Annie O’Rourke
Dr. Rachel Howard
Larissa Brown

Rebecca Huntley 

Links:
89 Degrees East

Politiv

Key Takeaways:

• Democracy is a privilege, celebrated through shared experiences and stories.

• Election day often brings unexpected challenges—and camaraderie among staffers.

• The tally room is the heart of election night drama and anticipation.

• Understanding and scrutinising polling trends remains critical.

• Soft voters can swing results, making last-minute persuasion efforts essential.

• Successful campaigns rely on nimble election logistics, especially in the final week.

• Personal reflections on election night reveal the emotional toll of political work.

• Accurate reading of voter behavior is vital for both strategy and expectation management.

Chapter Breakdown:
00:00 – Celebrating Democracy: Election Day Stories
05:04 – The Tally Room Experience: Highs and Lows
11:05 – Understanding Polls: Trust and Trends
18:23 – The Impact of Soft Voters
24:57 – Navigating Election Logistics: Final Week Strategies
30:56 – Preparing for Election Night: Personal Reflections

Keywords: election day, democracy, political stories, polling, voter behavior, election logistics, tally room, soft voters, election night

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Australia is heading to the polls and the political battleground is more crowded than ever. In this episode, we unpack how parties are using digital campaigning, micro‑targeted political ads and social‑media influencers to sway undecided voters. From pre‑poll booths to TikTok feeds, find out what’s working, what isn’t, and what every strategist should know before Election Day.

Connect with us:
Annie O’Rourke
Dr. Rachel Howard
Larissa Brown

Erinn Swan

Links:
89 Degrees East
Politiv

Key Takeaways

1. Media saturation after Pope Francis’s death will drown out routine campaign coverage, so parties need messages that cut through a dominated news cycle.

2. Pre‑poll is king. Candidates should spend most face‑time where early votes are cast; over half of Australians now vote before Election Day.

3. Digital ad production is near‑instant, allowing rapid A/B testing and daily pivots—agility beats long‑lead TV spots.

4. Influencers shape political narratives for Gen Z and Millennials; authentic creator partnerships outperform party‑branded content.

5. Cost‑of‑living frames dominate ad‑targeting, turning pocket‑book pain into votes via hyper‑local creatives.

6. Fear and grievance remain powerful motivators; negative emotion still drives click‑throughs and shares.

7. Authenticity beats polish. Raw, conversational clips win trust while over‑produced videos read as propaganda.

8. Data‑driven flexibility is essential; polling shifts mean creatives must refresh every 48 hours.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Political Chaos
02:56 – Navigating the Election Landscape
13:25 – The Evolution of Digital Campaigning
27:21 – The Role of Influencers in Politics

🔖politics, Australian election, digital campaigning, influencers, political ads, voter engagement, social media strategy, political communication, election strategy Australia, voter sentiment analysis, cost‑of‑living messaging, micro‑targeting, pre‑poll tactics, political strategy podcast, political influencers Australia

 

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.