‘Bizarre display of gutter politics’: WA One Nation leader returns serve to premier’s broadside

West Australian Premier Roger Cook has accused One Nation of promoting individuals with criminal histories related to sexual offenses as the political battle intensifies ahead of a crucial byelection in Secret Harbour. The dispute follows the resignation of former minister Paul Papalia in July, which triggered the contest for the seat. Cook's remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of candidates' backgrounds, with both parties seeking to position themselves as champions of women's rights. At a press conference on Monday, Cook addressed questions regarding a 2021 podcast hosted by In the House & In the Senate, where Labor’s candidate for Secret Harbour, Georgia Tree, discussed the broader implications of Brittany Higgins’ allegations of being raped in Parliament House. Tree, who was employed by federal Brand MP Madeleine King at the time, expressed concerns about potential "skeletons in the closet" within the Labor party. Cook defended Tree’s comments, stating that her willingness to speak out against injustice demonstrated strength and integrity. He emphasized that Tree’s stance contrasted sharply with One Nation, which he claimed promotes individuals with serious legal issues. Cook specifically referenced the party’s leadership, noting that One Nation’s national leader, Pauline Hanson, had previously dismissed Sean Black, who later rejoined the party despite being jailed in 2018 for rape and violent assault. Additionally, he pointed to the case of South Australian One Nation candidate Aoi Baxter, who was removed from the ballot just before an election due to unresolved legal matters involving alleged failure to attend court over sexual touching charges. Cook highlighted the evolution of parliamentary culture since his election in 2008, asserting that modern politics place greater emphasis on supporting women. He argued that this shift has strengthened his party while contrasting it with the figures One Nation puts forward, including those with convictions or pending charges related to sexual offenses. He suggested that WA Liberal leader Basil Zempilas might be attempting to bolster One Nation’s influence by redirecting Liberal Party preferences to the far-right group. Rod Caddies, the leader of One Nation in Western Australia, responded forcefully to Cook’s accusations, calling them “desperate and bizarre tactics.” Caddies refused to engage in what he described as a descent into political mudslinging, arguing that the premier’s approach reflected poor moral standards. He noted that Cook appeared to support Tree’s comments on the podcast, implying that Labor itself might have hidden issues. Caddies criticized the government for its conduct, expressing disappointment that even opponents could expect some level of decorum in political discourse. Caddies maintained that the campaign should remain focused on policy and governance rather than personal attacks. He reiterated that One Nation would not be drawn into a cycle of negativity, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity in public debate. His comments underscored the growing tension between the major parties and the smaller factions vying for influence in the upcoming byelection. Georgia Tree reaffirmed her commitment to speaking out on issues affecting women in the workplace, citing her past actions such as leading a sit-in as evidence of her dedication. She stated that she would continue to advocate for justice and transparency, regardless of the political climate. Her stance has become a focal point in the ongoing controversy, with supporters on both sides interpreting her remarks through different lenses. As the byelection approaches, the focus remains on the candidates’ records and their positions on key social issues. Both Cook and Caddies have laid out their respective cases, with each accusing the other of undermining the integrity of the electoral process. The outcome of the contest will likely depend on how effectively each side can address voter concerns and present a compelling narrative.