One Nation Moves Into Gina Rinehart-Owned Office Amid Expansion Push

One Nation is set to relocate its national headquarters to a building owned by Gina Rinehart, Australia's wealthiest individual and a key financial supporter of the party. The move to 160 Wharf St in inner Brisbane is part of the party's broader strategy to increase its presence across Australia.

The building was recently acquired by a company associated with Rinehart's Hancock Prospecting. A spokesperson for Hancock Prospecting stated that the company owns a range of commercial properties and that the building is one of them. The spokesperson emphasized that Hancock Prospecting is not providing free or discounted space to any external tenants, political or otherwise, and that One Nation will pay market rates for the lease.

One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce defended the arrangement, telling News24 that Rinehart, who has previously gifted the party a private jet valued at over $1.3 million, is entitled to invest in political parties as she sees fit. "If they want to support One Nation, knock yourself out," Joyce said regarding financial backers.

In addition to the headquarters relocation, the party is also restructuring its staffing to support its expansion goals. Richard Henderson, One Nation's senior media advisor, has been appointed to oversee the South Australian branch, which is led by former senator Cory Bernardi. A One Nation spokesperson noted Henderson's value to Senator Pauline Hanson and federal colleagues, while also acknowledging his South Australian roots. Henderson previously ran for the seat of South Brisbane in the Queensland state election.

The party is also targeting seats in the upcoming Victorian election, where support for the incumbent Labor party has reportedly waned. One Nation could potentially hold the balance of power in Victoria, as the Liberal and National parties aim to secure a majority government.