Jacqui Lambie is an influential Australian politician and former member of the Australian Defence Force. She’s become a prominent critic of salmon farming in Tasmanian waters. She had to wait, after the federal election on May 3, three weeks for the final distribution of preferences. Along the way, she raised alarm bells about her campaign’s dwindling funds. Despite these challenges, Lambie successfully secured her position in the Senate but acknowledged that this would be her final term.
Lambie’s campaign encountered significant hurdles due to a shortage of funds and volunteers, which she attributed to the competitive nature of the Labor Party’s campaign. The Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) won 7.92 percent of the vote in that same election. That’s even a bit of a drop from their 2019 performance of 8.92 percent. On this political rollercoaster, she still hasn’t given up on her commitment. She promises to spend her next six years in the Senate promoting Tasmanian interests on a national stage.
Campaign Struggles and Election Insights
Looking back on her victory in the last election, Lambie admitted to how hard financial restrictions affected her campaign.
“We never had the money, mate — money I get from the public in the last 13 months has really dried up because people are doing it tough.” – Jacqui Lambie
Although things were tough, she stood firmly and presented clearly about her campaign strategy. She reiterated that even if she had started taking a different approach, she wouldn’t have achieved a different result.
“I don’t think anything I could have done more or less of would have made any difference for me,” – Jacqui Lambie
Lambie observed a strong resurgence from Labor in the election’s final weeks, indicating that the party’s momentum played a crucial role in shaping the results.
“I could see Labor coming home really strong, especially in that last two to two and a half weeks.” – Jacqui Lambie
Her frank admission of the difficulties encountered in the early days of their campaign is a testament to her dedication to transparency with her constituents.
Legislative Priorities for Final Term
As she heads into her final, increased-rate state Senate term, Lambie has mapped out a few crusades she plans to lead the charge on. The proposed Macquarie Point stadium remains priority No. Paying down Tasmania’s increasing debt is important to all of her constituents.
She has been vocal about income generated from Western Australia’s mining sector, advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources across Australia.
“I don’t care where they are in Australia, if it’s coming out of your state, those royalties belong to all Australians,” – Jacqui Lambie
She’s not alone in this cabinet, as she’s made her known frustration with the current political landscape. In addition, she advocates for new ideas and solutions in government.
“I think it’s time for fresh bread, mate. You can become very lost in it all if you’re not careful.” – Jacqui Lambie
Her love for Tasmanian issues comes across in her storytelling and ongoing outreach efforts with the local communities, stakeholders and communities of interest.
Public Engagement and Controversial Stances
Lambie’s vigorous opposition to salmon farming has turned into a signature issue and public appearances for the independent senator. She was on the front lines of a recent opposition rally against plans to build a new stadium on Hobart’s historic waterfront. Indeed, she made her case fervently throughout the forum.
At this event, she made headlines when she told Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff to “stick it up your bum.” This honesty strikes a chord with many constituents who admire her honesty and loyalty to their issues above all else.
“I get plenty of feedback about what’s going on. With the salmon, the stadium.” – Jacqui Lambie
Her relationships inside the political sphere are still very fluid too. One of her candidates was former senator, Rex Patrick. He became involved with the JLN and focused on winning back his 2016 seat in 2022.
With great sympathy and intelligence, Lambie draws the delicately textured relationships. She should continue to keep her eye on Tasmanian needs as she begins this last stage of her political career.
