Federal election results 2025: Game theory explains why the Liberals lost – and how to win next time

Game Theory and the 2025 Australian Federal Election

This article analyzes the 2025 Australian federal election results through the framework of game theory. It argues that both the Labor and Liberal parties adopted similar policies to appeal to a broad range of voters, aiming for a central position to maximize their reach.

Labor's Victory and the Shifting Political Landscape

Despite similar policy approaches, Labor secured a significant victory. The article attributes this to a shift in the median voter, with younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) becoming the largest voting bloc and leaning more progressively on issues such as climate action and gender equity.

Liberal Party's Miscalculations

• Misjudged voter priorities on issues like working from home.
• Focused on conservative policies, like an anti-woke agenda, that did not resonate with the broader electorate.
• Failed to address internal divisions and present a coherent message.

Path to Victory for the Liberals

The article suggests that for the Liberal party to regain electoral success, they need to:

• Adopt a more centrist approach.
• Address their "women problem" and embrace female leadership.
• Preselect more moderate candidates.
• Present a unified and consistent message.

Overall Conclusion

The article concludes that while a shift back to conservative views is possible, the long-term trend suggests a progressive shift, particularly among younger voters. The Liberal Party must adapt to this reality to achieve future electoral success.