When Extremes Go Mainstream
7.30-8.45pm (bar from 6.30pm)
Queenscliff Town Hall, 50 Learmonth Street

With the Victorian election just a month away, what does Australia’s rapidly shifting political landscape—at both federal and state levels—tell us about the issues voters believe the major parties are failing to address? We’ll explore why increasing numbers of voters are looking beyond the traditional political parties, the role of media and tech in amplifying extreme voices, what the rise of minor and populist parties signals about the electorate, and whether Australia’s two-party system still reflects the political realities of a rapidly changing country. Join us for a robust and thought-provoking discussion about power, protest, populism and the future of Australian politics, with former politician Bob Carr, journalist Antoun Issa, populism expert Imogen Richards, and media commentator Tony Barry. Moderated by journalist Nicole Chvastek.

Presented in partnership with the Peter Blazey Fellowship.

Queenscliffe Literary Festival 2026