Labor frontbencher Andrew Giles has issued a stark warning that right-wing populists, including Pauline Hanson's One Nation party and the Coalition, are cynically exploiting the frustrations of Australians who feel neglected by government or disadvantaged by inadequate education and limited job opportunities. In a speech to be delivered at the McKell Institute thinktank, Giles will declare that enhancing foundational literacy and digital skills for workers is not merely an "economic necessity" for Australia but also a critical moral and democratic imperative.
The Threat to Democratic Cohesion
Giles accuses One Nation and the Coalition of adopting reactionary and divisive tactics to win over voters who are fearful and disenfranchised. He argues that this strategy capitalises on real sentiments of frustration, particularly among those struggling with immediate cost-of-living pressures and uncertainty about future prosperity in an era of rapid technological change, including the rise of artificial intelligence. The influential left faction MP, who serves on Labor's national executive, contends that without robust education and skills policies, Australia risks further erosion of public trust in government and a weakening of democratic institutions.
Polling Surge and Political Dynamics
These comments come amid a significant surge in support for One Nation, as evidenced by recent opinion polls ahead of key electoral tests such as the South Australian state election and the Farrer byelection. Last month's Guardian Essential poll revealed that nearly 60% of Australians would consider voting for One Nation at the next federal election, including almost half of current Labor supporters. One Nation polled at 22% of the primary vote, trailing the Coalition at 26%, with Labor at 30%. Meanwhile, opposition figures like Angus Taylor and Matt Canavan have prioritised economic prosperity in Coalition policy agendas.
Skills as an Equaliser and Enabler
Giles emphasises that skills and training serve as both an equaliser and an enabler, empowering Australians of all ages to navigate a transforming world on their own terms. He asserts that well-crafted skills policies can strengthen the fabric of democracy by ensuring individuals are equipped to make informed choices and participate fully in society. As the Albanese government's skills and training minister, Giles oversees Labor's free Tafe policy, which has already seen over 742,000 new enrolments and nearly 250,000 course completions.
Addressing Technological Disruption
In his speech, Giles pledges to implement policies that support Australians dealing with the disruption caused by advancing technologies like AI. He argues that employers who involve workers in these changes will reap the greatest rewards, as employees need confidence that they are not merely training their own replacements but are contributing to ongoing business success. This approach, he suggests, is essential for maintaining workforce morale and productivity in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
Cultural Wars and Social Cohesion
Giles criticises Liberal frontbenchers, including Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, for adopting what he describes as the "divisive rhetoric of imported culture wars." He links this to broader tactics used by populist and far-right parties in the US, UK, and Europe, warning that such strategies undermine social cohesion. Research by the Scanlon Foundation supports this concern, showing that only 37% of respondents trust the federal government to do the right thing most of the time. However, the same report highlights that individuals with strong local connections and active community participation are more likely to experience happiness, belonging, and trust in others.
Ultimately, Giles frames the push for better foundational literacy and digital skills as a proactive measure to counter populist exploitation and fortify Australia's democratic resilience. By addressing educational gaps and equipping workers for future challenges, he believes the nation can foster greater inclusivity and stability in an uncertain world.
