A controversial One Nation cartoon has triggered a new political storm in Victoria, drawing criticism from senior government figures and reigniting debate over the boundaries of political satire in Australian politics.
Victoria’s Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams strongly condemned the cartoon during a press conference, accusing One Nation of relying on outdated and offensive stereotypes rather than focusing on policy issues affecting the community.
“We’re now seeing them again buy in to tired old misogynistic tropes,” Williams said.
She questioned whether the party was serious about governing or simply seeking attention through provocative content.
“They’ve got to decide if they are a serious political party interested in policy and what they’re going to deliver for the Victorian community or whether they’re a bunch of school kids drawing cartoons at the back of the class.”
The criticism comes after growing backlash over a One Nation cartoon that mocked Senator Jacqui Lambie, prompting widespread debate about sexism, satire, and political discourse.
Speaking in Perth, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson defended the cartoon and dismissed calls for an apology.
“She might be learning a bit about it. And when you look at the cartoon, it is satirical, right?” Hanson told reporters.
The cartoon’s creator, Mark Nicholson, a Melbourne-based political satirist and current One Nation candidate in the Victorian state election, also stood by the work during an interview this week.
“We’re just trying to do the best thing for the country and for satire,” Nicholson said.
The controversy follows previous disputes over political messaging and imagery in Victoria. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined politicians from across the political spectrum in criticising a mobile billboard that portrayed former Victorian premier Jacinta Allan as a witch.
That billboard was reportedly funded by a Melbourne brothel and was described by Allan as part of a coordinated political campaign. Senior opposition figures also labelled the advertisement sexist and inappropriate.
Meanwhile, attention has also turned to One Nation MP David Farley, who revealed he had “reluctantly” declined an unsolicited offer from the Prime Minister for additional staff support.
The latest dispute highlights growing tensions over the use of satire, political advertising, and personal attacks in Australian politics ahead of the Victorian state election campaign.
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