Barnaby Joyce’s ‘Brokeback’ Remark Highlights One Nation’s Need for LGBTQ Support

A recent quip by former deputy prime minister

A recent quip by former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce, referencing the film 'Brokeback Mountain' in relation to One Nation, has sparked fresh debate about the party’s electoral strategy. Joyce’s comment, while seemingly offhand, underscores a growing recognition within conservative circles that the political right in Australia cannot afford to ignore the LGBTQ community.

One Nation has long positioned itself as a champion of traditional values, often clashing with progressive social movements. Yet, if the party truly aspires to surpass the Liberal-National coalition as the primary voice of the right, it must expand its appeal beyond its current base. That means courting voters who may not fit the stereotypical profile of a right-wing supporter, including gay Australians.

The notion is not as far-fetched as it might seem. Polling and electoral analysis in recent years have shown that LGBTQ voters are not a monolithic bloc. Many hold conservative views on economics, national security, and immigration. For a party like One Nation, which has occasionally struggled to shake off accusations of intolerance, reaching out to this demographic could soften its image and widen its electoral footprint.

Joyce’s reference, though flippant, inadvertently highli…

Joyce’s reference, though flippant, inadvertently highlights a practical political reality. In a political landscape where every vote counts, especially in tight regional contests, alienating any group is a luxury no aspiring majority party can afford. The challenge for One Nation is to craft a message that resonates with moderate and socially liberal voters without abandoning the core principles that define its identity.

Whether the party will act on this insight remains unclear. But as the right-wing vote becomes increasingly fragmented, the ability to build coalitions across traditional social divides may prove decisive. If One Nation hopes to become a serious contender for government, it cannot afford to leave any potential supporter behind—even those whose lifestyles might make some of its members uncomfortable.