In recent months, many Australians would have seen or heard celebrities such as Dave Hughes, Karl Stefanovic and Kyle Sandilands becoming more involved in Australia’s political debate.

While it is not new for celebrities to express political opinions, social media has changed how they engage in public debate.

They can influence people even if they don’t officially endorse a political party or appear at a campaign rally.

But what is particularly interesting is these personalities are engaging with politics in different ways.

Capitalising on social grievance

Many Australians are frustrated by cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability and declining trust in political institutions.

Celebrities often use humour, criticism and relatable commentary to channel those frustrations.

They position themselves as speaking for ordinary Australians, rather than political elites. Genuine public concerns can be expressed through outrage-driven narratives.

But this approach can reinforce dissatisfaction rather than encourage informed political debate. For those on the conservative side of the political spectrum who benefit from these engagements, it has been described as “right-wing grifting”.

What are Hughes, Stefanovic and co doing?

Hughes has become increasingly outspoken in his criticism of Labor, focusing on policy and economics. He maintains his political stance is driven by opposition to government mismanagement, rather than opposition to the political left.

He recently attended a Victorian Liberal Party campaign event but stopped his engagement because of concerns it might breach the state’s political donation laws.

Hughes has described himself as a “former lifelong Labor voter”.

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