Family First has today announced that the party will not be recommending its number two preference for One Nation at the upcoming Farrer by-election, citing serious concerns about the conduct and record of its candidate, David Farley.
National Director Lyle Shelton said recent revelations about Mr Farley’s social media activity, including the sharing of sexually suggestive content involving young women, raised serious questions about his judgement and respect for women.
To their credit, major parties will generally dis-endorse candidates for this sort of activity.
“Family First will not be preferencing One Nation in Farrer because we believe in respecting women and girls. We reject the sex industry’s online platforms designed to deceive young women into thinking posting pornographic images of themselves is ‘empowering’,” Mr Shelton said.
“Politics should be about lifting standards, not lowering them. The character of candidates matters.”
Mr Shelton said the concerns extended beyond a single incident.
“Comments previously attributed to Mr Farley about former prime minister Julia Gillard were offensive and demeaning—not just to her, but to all women. This points to a deeper problem.”
He said Mr Farley’s conduct also sits at odds with the clearly expressed values of the local community.
“In 2024, Albury residents strongly opposed the establishment of a strip club in their city, with the council ultimately rejecting the proposal after significant community backlash. That tells you something important about the values of this electorate.”
“People in Farrer want a family-friendly community that respects women—not one represented by someone who promotes content that objectifies them.”
Family First has selected local mother of four Rebecca Scriven as its candidate.
Mr Shelton also said there is a broader pattern within One Nation that cannot be ignored.
“This is not an isolated issue. One Nation has a pattern of elevating individuals who demonstrate a low regard for women.”
“In Victoria, the party has promoted a senior figure who has publicly celebrated her past involvement in running a strip club—something that many Australians, particularly mums and dads, find deeply concerning.”
Mr Shelton said Family First offers a clear alternative.
“Family First stands unapologetically for the dignity of women, the protection of children, and the strengthening of families.”
“Preferences are not just tactical—they are a statement of values. And our values are clear: we will not support candidates or parties that contribute to the degradation of women.”
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