Neoliberalism has been entrenched in Australia since the 1980s, significantly influenced by U.S. corporate interests and military partnerships that support neoliberal policies. Both major political parties, Labor and Liberal, have embraced these principles largely due to pressure from the United States. The shift began under the leadership of Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, who aligned Labor's policies with neoliberal ideals, while the Liberal Party has consistently maintained a pro-business stance [ebc2088b].
U.S. corporations play a pivotal role in shaping Australian policy through substantial donations to political parties, which further entrenches neoliberalism in the political landscape. The recent AUKUS pact, emphasizing military spending over social welfare, is a clear indication of this influence. Additionally, trade agreements have embedded neoliberal principles, including Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) clauses that prioritize corporate interests over public welfare [ebc2088b].
Despite the challenges posed by neoliberalism, grassroots movements such as GetUp! and Extinction Rebellion are advocating for change, highlighting issues like wealth inequality and environmental degradation exacerbated by these policies. There are growing calls for electoral accountability and the renegotiation of trade agreements to prioritize the public interest over corporate profit [ebc2088b].
In New Zealand, the political landscape is undergoing significant changes as the center-right National Party, led by Christopher Luxon, won 39% of the vote in the recent elections, forming a coalition government amid rising inflation and housing unaffordability [2fd60f37]. This shift follows years of progressive governance that struggled with economic issues, leading to a political realignment in the country [64e3fc14].
Argentina, facing its own economic crisis with a poverty rate of 40% and inflation at 135%, is preparing for a presidential runoff between ruling government candidate Sergio Massa and Libertarian economist Javier Milei, who proposes radical economic reforms [2fd60f37]. The political dynamics in both New Zealand and Argentina reflect broader trends of discontent with existing neoliberal frameworks, as citizens seek new solutions to pressing economic challenges [16b0fae5].
In Australia, the media landscape remains resistant to Anthony Albanese's attempts to shift away from neoliberalism. The media's focus on traditional narratives and its ties to the fossil fuel industry hinder recognition of changing economic paradigms. Despite the climate emergency demanding a reevaluation of neoliberal responses, the media continues to promote a status quo that favors corporate interests [d6ea2306].
The legacy of Rogernomics in New Zealand, initiated in the 1980s, continues to shape its society, with significant economic reforms leading to a finance-dominated economy. The impacts of these reforms are still felt today, as the country grapples with the consequences of a neoliberal agenda that dismantled the welfare state [ce9045f1].
Both New Zealand and Argentina's political shifts, alongside Australia's entrenched neoliberalism influenced by U.S. interests, illustrate the complex interplay of local and global forces shaping contemporary governance and economic policy across these nations [cd5094ce].