Can frustrated voters today propel One Nation into WA's parliament?

Voter frustration with major parties is being put to the test today in a Western Australian by-election, where Pauline Hanson's One Nation party is challenging Labor in the Secret Harbour electorate. This poll is considered a crucial indicator of any significant shifts in the political landscape and whether One Nation can translate its growing support into parliamentary seats.

The by-election, held in a beachside suburb south of Perth, is significant because it represents an area where One Nation's surge in support, particularly evident in eastern Australia, could potentially translate into a win. Secret Harbour encompasses Perth's outer southern suburbs, attracting young families who are acutely feeling the pressure of rising living costs and housing affordability, issues that have become central to the campaign.

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I did vote for Labor in the past, but I feel really let down by them. I hope they change and start to listen to the community a bit more.

Labor, which previously held the seat with a comfortable margin of 11.5 percent, is placing a strong emphasis on countering One Nation, identifying them as their primary opponent. While voters often behave differently in by-elections that do not determine the government, this particular poll is being closely watched nationally as a gauge of One Nation's potential threat to Labor and how both Labor and the Liberal party might need to adjust their future campaign strategies.

Interviews with locals reveal a complex sentiment. Some, like hairdresser Emma Pender and her client Emma Chellew, are looking beyond Labor, with Pender favoring the Liberal candidate, Ryan Robertson, due to his local ties and attentiveness to community issues. Long-time Labor voter Elaine Soltluisch, however, is considering a different direction, expressing disappointment with the current Labor government's performance and a desire for them to better listen to the community's needs. Fabian Portese, another former Labor voter, remains undecided but hopes for a change in the party's approach.

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I put Ryan [Liberal candidate] number one. That was purely because he was local. He is listening to people and he is already aware a lot of the problems.