One Nation gains momentum in Pakenham ahead of Victorian state election

A rally at Pakenham’s Railway Hotel drew One Nation loyalists dressed in the party’s signature colours to hear state leader and local candidate Warren Pickering speak. Pickering claimed that voters from both major parties are joining One Nation, seeking an alternative to perceived mediocrity. The electorate, long considered a marginal “gateway to Gippsland,” will be open after Labor’s Emma Vulin announced she will not recontest, heightening its strategic importance for November’s state poll.

Attendees highlighted issues such as deteriorating roads, rising living costs and limited regional health services, with some traveling from towns like Wonthaggi. Polling from the Resolve Political Monitor in October placed One Nation’s primary vote at 23 %, the coalition at 28 % and Labor at 25 %, while the Greens and independents lag behind. In addition to campaigning, One Nation outlined policy proposals, including increased penalties for repeat illegal dumping offenders.