The Australia Desk · Story 7
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson says she takes policy advice from 'friend' Gina Rinehart
Pauline Hanson has stated she takes policy advice from billionaire Gina Rinehart, whom she described as a friend. The admission has sparked criticism online, with many accusing Hanson of being a puppet for the mining magnate.
The revelation raises questions about the independence of a political leader who openly relies on a billionaire for policy direction. It also highlights the broader influence of wealthy individuals on Australian politics, particularly around resource taxation.
Key details
- Pauline Hanson said she takes policy advice from billionaire Gina Rinehart, whom she called a 'friend'.
- Hanson became emotional during a speech recalling her time in detention while speaking about Rinehart.
- The story was published by ABC News on June 11, 2026.
- The Reddit post in r/australia received over 2,200 upvotes and 340 comments.
Discussion angles
- Hanson's admission confirms she is a puppet for Gina Rinehart, not an independent leader.
- Voters should reject Hanson if they want any tax on mineral resources.
- Billionaire influence in politics inevitably leads to the rich getting richer at everyone's expense.
- Hanson may be naive to think Rinehart genuinely likes her, similar to past political figures.
- The open admission of taking policy advice from a billionaire undermines Hanson's populist credibility.
Top comments
Reddit users reacted with heavy sarcasm and frustration, calling Hanson a puppet of Gina Rinehart and questioning why voters would support a leader who openly takes policy direction from a mining billionaire. Several comments mocked the relationship as one-sided, with Rinehart using Hanson for political influence. Others warned that billionaire-backed policy would only worsen inequality and block taxes on mineral wealth.