Former Labor Senator Fatima Payman has announced the formation of a new political party, Australia’s Voice, aimed at challenging the dominance of the major parties.
However, she did not reveal much regarding the specific policies that Australia’s Voice will advocate.
During the launch, Payman expressed concern over the “duopoly” of the major parties, stating, “Australians are fed up with the major parties having a stranglehold over our democracy.”
She emphasised the importance of empowering the disenfranchised, asserting that her party would be a movement for “all Australians.”
“It’s time to stand up, to rise together, and to take control of our future. And so, it is with great humility and deep responsibility that I announce the formation of Australia’s Voice, a new political party for the disenfranchised,” she said.
Payman, who parted from Labor primarily on July 4 over the Palestine issue, skipped mentioning it during her speech and instead highlighted her disagreement on key issues such as housing affordability, aged care reform, and early childhood education.
When asked about candidate selection, Payman confirmed it would be based on merit and alignment with the party’s values. She noted growing interest from former Labor candidates and members of the National Party, signalling a diverse pool of potential candidates.
“We’re not ruling out anyone,” she said, adding that the party aims to include voices from all backgrounds.
Regarding target seats for the upcoming election, Payman remained non-committal, stating that discussions are still ongoing.
She also mentioned being open to donations to support the party’s launch and future campaigns but clarified that no financial backing had yet been secured.
As a former Labor senator, Payman has faced scrutiny regarding her departure from the party. However, she reported that no former colleagues had approached her with concerns.
Differentiating her party from the Greens, she said, “I admire the Greens for their passion, but I’ve heard from Australians that they think sometimes the Greens go too far.”
Payman also addressed the party’s name, Australia’s Voice, explaining that it is a nod to the need for a platform that prioritises Indigenous Australian issues. She shared that she had consulted with Indigenous Australian elders to ensure their voices were included in parliamentary discussions.
In response to questions about election strategies, including whether she would run candidates in every state or specifically target the Prime Minister’s seat, Payman remained open-ended.
“Everything is on the table. We’re considering all our options,” she said while confirming that her party would not adhere to strict ideological lines, positioning itself as a centrist option.
In closing, Payman acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed optimism.
“I know it’s going to be an interesting election next year. I’m not here to do what’s easy, I’m here to do what’s right,” she said.
