One Nation candidate unrepentant over racist Aboriginal ‘joke’

Ross Macdonald, the One Nation candidate running for the federal seat of Herbert has once again come under scrutiny after confirming he is the same candidate who shared an appalling racist joke on social media during his failed campaign for the seat of Leichhardt in 2019.

Specifically, the controversial post was widely condemned for its racist implications towards Aboriginal people, referencing Indigenous Australians as “crocodile bait” – a deeply offensive reminder of Australia’s brutal colonial history and the violence inflicted upon First Nations communities.

However, despite widespread backlash and criticism from community leaders, politicians and members of the public, Macdonald remains defiantly unapologetic.

Indeed, in a recent statement, he argued that the controversy actually benefited his campaign, dismissing concerns as political correctness gone too far.

Consequently, this response has sparked renewed outrage among Indigenous communities, who view such remarks as trivialising the trauma and discrimination they continue to face. Furthermore, Indigenous leaders emphasise that comments like Macdonald’s perpetuate harmful stereotypes and racism, thereby undermining efforts to build genuine reconciliation and respect.

“It’s not about being overly sensitive – it’s about recognising historical injustices and working towards healing… these jokes aren’t harmless; they reflect and reinforce damaging attitudes and systemic racism.”

Nevertheless, despite the condemnation, One Nation has not indicated any intention to withdraw support for Macdonald’s candidacy.

On the contrary, party representatives have previously described the controversy as a media beat-up, aligning themselves with Macdonald’s narrative of victimhood under political correctness.

With the upcoming federal election, Macdonald’s candidacy will therefore continue to face scrutiny, particularly from Indigenous communities who demand accountability and respect from those seeking public office.

But ultimately, as Indigenous Australians continue to confront the lasting impacts of colonialism and discrimination, incidents like this underscore the persistent challenges in Australia’s journey towards reconciliation and genuine respect for First Nations peoples.