The Hollow State: Power Without Purpose in Australian Politics is a scathing analysis of how Australia’s political system has been drained of conviction, competence and purpose. Drawing on decades of political commentary, analysis and insider knowledge, Peter van Onselen offers a compelling account of how managerialism, personality cults, media decline and institutional erosion have hollowed out Australian democracy.
From the rise of spin over substance to the collapse of internal party democracy, this book exposes the decay of meaningful governance and the triumph of tactics over strategy.
With forensic insight and unapologetic critique, The Hollow State captures the frustrations of voters, the failure of elites and the shrinking space for serious policy reform.
Peter van Onselen PhD is the Political Editor for Daily Mail Australia, having previously worked as Political Editor at Network 10 and Contributing Editor at The Australian and Sky News. He is also a professor of politics and public policy at the University of Western Australia and was appointed its foundation chair of journalism in 2011. Peter is the author or editor of 10 books, including four best sellers. His biography on John Howard was ranked by the Wall Street Journal as the best biography of 2007. Peter has won Walkley and Logie awards for his broadcast journalism and a News Award for his feature and opinion writing.
* Written by Walkley and Logie award-winning journalist and academic Peter van Onselen, one of Australia’s most prominent political commentators.
* Timely and urgent, offering sharp insight into the 2025 federal election and beyond, revealing why voters feel increasingly disconnected from politics.
* Combines accessible commentary with academic depth, perfect for both general readers and university-level political science courses.
* Features analysis of major parties, minor parties, media decline, bureaucratic erosion, and political leadership failure—all contributing to Australia’s hollowed-out state.
* Builds on van Onselen’s extensive published work and media appearances, offering the definitive account of a political system in drift.
* A vital call to action for citizens, journalists and policymakers who want to understand how Australia got here and what must change to fix it.
Publicity:
* Peter has a substantial social presence on X where he actively engages in debate and commentary. He will also have opportunities to feature the book in his Daily Mail articles and on his podcast, Points of View with PVO.
* The book will generate interest and coverage in mainstream national media.
