A new One Nation branch covering the federal electorates of Macquarie and Hawkesbury has officially been launched, with around 40 members and supporters attending the inaugural meeting at Hawkesbury Race Club on Monday, 14 July.
The meeting marked the formal establishment of the local branch ahead of the next federal election and included the election of the branch's inaugural committee.
Party members also received an update on One Nation's plans for the Macquarie electorate, with nominations for party preselection to contest the seat remaining open until 30 July.
The establishment of the branch reflects One Nation's intention to strengthen its presence across Western Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury, where issues including cost of living, housing affordability, energy prices, infrastructure, immigration and regional development have become key political issues.
While neither electorate has traditionally been considered a One Nation stronghold, the polling indicates both could become increasingly competitive if the party fields well-known local candidates.
The new branch is expected to play a role in coordinating local campaigning, membership growth and candidate support in the lead-up to the federal election.
The Hawkesbury Gazette understands several local members have expressed interest in contesting preselection, with the successful candidate to be announced following the close of nominations.
One Nation, led federally by Senator Pauline Hanson, has sought to expand its representation in New South Wales in recent elections, targeting seats in regional communities where concerns over the cost of living and government policy have resonated with voters.
The Hawkesbury Gazette attended the inaugural meeting and will publish a more detailed report in an upcoming edition, including interviews with party officials, details of the newly elected committee, the key issues discussed during the meeting and what the establishment of the branch could mean for voters across the Hawkesbury and Macquarie electorates.
