One Nation is demanding tens of thousands of dollars from people seeking to run as candidates in the upcoming Victorian state election, with reports suggesting the party could collect as much as $633,000 in application-related fees. Multiple applicants, including former councillors, mayors and deputy mayors, have questioned whether the process amounts to a “pay-to-play” arrangement.
Many of those who applied say they felt used, misled and gaslit during the process, according to a complaint letter reportedly seen by Guardian Australia. After going through the application process, several candidates were ultimately rejected.
Key Facts
- One Nation could collect up to $633,000 from Victorian candidates.
- Candidates describe the process as a possible “cash grab”.
- Former councillors, mayors and deputy mayors applied to run.
- Applicants reported feeling misled and rejected after applying.
- Guardian Australia reviewed a complaint letter detailing these claims.
What the Application Process Looks Like
Potential One Nation candidates for the Victorian state election are reportedly being asked to pay substantial fees as part of their application. While the exact structure of these payments has not been independently confirmed, the scale of the potential charges — up to $633,000 across all applicants — has sparked concern among those who engaged with the party.
The issue appears to center on whether these payments are genuine administrative costs or act as a barrier to entry for candidates without significant personal wealth. Those familiar with the process say some applicants were left feeling misled about their chances after investing time and money.
Who Is Affected by the Alleged Cash Grab?
Individuals drawn from local government backgrounds — including current and former councillors, mayors and deputy mayors — are among those said to have applied to run under the One Nation banner. Their reported dissatisfaction centers not only on the fees, but also on how the application process was managed.
A complaint letter, allegedly signed by multiple applicants, claims they were treated unfairly and left feeling used. Guardian Australia has reviewed copies of the correspondence, though the full contents have not been made public.
What We Know — and What We Don’t
Verified by the source:
- One Nation may collect up to $633,000 from Victorian election candidates.
- Some applicants described the process as a “cash grab”.
- People involved include former councillors, mayors and deputy mayors.
- A complaint letter expressing dissatisfaction was reviewed by Guardian Australia.
Still unconfirmed:
- The precise fee structure or breakdown of charges per candidate.
- Whether all applicants were charged equally high amounts.
- Official comment from One Nation or Victorian electoral authorities.
Why It Matters
Allegations of a pay-to-play system in political candidate recruitment raise questions about fairness and access in democracy. If true, high financial barriers could limit participation to those with personal wealth, potentially distorting representation in the Victorian parliament.
What To Watch
Further details may emerge if One Nation issues an official statement or if the complaint letter is published in full. Updates will depend on responses from the party and Victorian electoral regulators.