ABSTRACT

This book presents a new approach to the analysis of Australian federal election campaigns, approaching them from a professional communication perspective. It stress-tests the campaigns of the major parties against the requirements of effective strategic communication planning and implementation parameters used in professional practice.
Research undertaken during the 2022 election period analyses campaign issues, whether communication tools were appropriate, and whether strategic directions led to real outcomes by delivering votes to the parties. Applying the Hallahan model for the first time in an Australian election study, the book offers rare insights into a political culture that employs compulsory voting.
It will be of interest to scholars and students of Australian politics, public relations, and communication studies.

chapter 1|11 pages

A short drive to Yarralumla

chapter 2|24 pages

A strategic approach

chapter 3|14 pages

Behind the swing to independents

chapter 4|15 pages

The key players

chapter 5|16 pages

Campaigning on issues

chapter 6|7 pages

The pressure points

Polls and marginal electorates

chapter 7|14 pages

The news media, frames, and debates

chapter 8|23 pages

The 2022 election result

chapter |9 pages

Case study

Defying maths in the ACT

chapter 9|7 pages

Will they ever learn?

chapter |2 pages

A postscript