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Recent Aussie polls reflect resistance to global populist tide

Observers say minor parties are unlikely to dislodge the major ones any time soon

Left: In recent polls in South Australia, Mr Nick Xenophon's SA Best party failed to secure a seat in the Lower House and won only 14 per cent of the primary vote. Analysts say the failure of his party was due to lack of readiness or policy detail. B — In recent polls in South Australia, Mr Nick Xenophon's SA Best party failed to secure a seat in the Lower House and won only 14 per cent of the primary vote. Analysts say the failure of his party was due to lack of readiness or policy detail.

Jonathan Pearlman For The Straits Times In Sydney

Updated

Published

Mar 26, 2018, 05:00 AM

Populist parties and leaders have been gaining ground across the world in recent years, but Australia is emerging as something of an anomaly.

At a series of recent elections - including a state poll and a federal by-election earlier this month - smaller parties recorded disappointing results and Australian voters appeared to be shifting towards the reliable centre.

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