One Nation Faces Pressure After MP Votes to Reduce Fuel Tax Credits
One Nation is under scrutiny to clarify its stance after its new MP, David Farley, voted in favour of winding back fuel tax credits—a move opposed by mining and farming groups.
The Farrer MP sided with Greens and teal independents in a lower house vote to cap the fuel tax credit scheme. This scheme refunds miners, farmers, and other industries that use heavy machinery the 52.6 cents per litre excise applied to petrol and diesel.
The amendment, introduced by Bradfield MP Nicolette Boele, was ultimately defeated after both Labor and the Coalition rejected it.
Industry Groups Condemn Farley’s Vote
Farley’s vote aligns with a position strongly criticised by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) and the National Farmers Federation (NFF), who view it as an attack on farmers, miners, and truck drivers—groups One Nation claims to represent.
MCA chief executive Tania Constable said,
"David Farley is a regional member, and it was his first big opportunity to show what he’s made of, and he voted against regional Australia."
She added,
"He voted against the farmers, the fishers, the construction industry. He voted against the miners. He voted against regional Australia, and we’re really deeply disappointed that he threw his lot in with the Greens and the teals."
Farley’s Vote Aligns with Climate Advocates and Mining Opponents
Farley’s decision places him alongside climate campaigners, unions, rank-and-file Labor members, and mining billionaire Andrew Forrest, all of whom view the rebate scheme as an obstacle to decarbonisation and advocate for its capping.
Australia has not confirmed whether Farley intended to support Boele’s amendment or if it was an error.
Farley described Tuesday’s vote as "political theatre" and responded "No" when asked if he was caught off guard by the speed of the process.
He did not respond to calls from Australia, and One Nation declined to comment.
Potential Policy Freelancing by Farley
If Farley did intend to support the amendment, it would be another example of policy freelancing after he previously backed current migration levels and indicated he would fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flag in his office.
He later clarified on Facebook that his office would fly the Australian flag and that no flag would stand above or replace it.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson earlier this month expressed uncertainty about his positions.
Nationals Demand Clarity on One Nation’s Position
The Nationals seized on Farley’s vote, holding a press conference with NFF chief executive Michael Guerin to demand clarity on One Nation’s stance.
Shadow resources minister Susan McDonald said,
"David Farley says it’s all theatrics. If he wants theatrics, he should join a play group, but if he is serious about being a part of the Australian parliament of taking his job and the voters that have sent him here seriously, he has got to think about what he is doing. Is this now One Nation policy?"
When asked if Farley should be forgiven for potentially making a mistake as a rookie MP, Nationals leader Matt Canavan responded,
"I don’t think this is a place for training wheels."
Shadow treasurer Tim Wilson commented on Farley’s position, stating,
"I don’t really know where it is they stand or who they’re fighting for, but that’s a matter for them."
