In one of the most extraordinary political upsets in recent Australian history, disability advocate Ali France has unseated Opposition Leader Peter Dutton in the federal seat of Dickson — ending his 24-year reign and delivering a defining blow to the Coalition.
France, a former journalist, para-athlete and communications professional, flipped the marginal Queensland electorate with a stunning swing of around eight percentage points, according to preliminary data from the Australian Electoral Commission.
The shock result not only ends Dutton’s hold on the seat but also his leadership of the Liberal Party — and possibly his political career.
“Life’s bittersweet, isn’t it? It is a series of highs and lows,” France told Sky News following her victory on Saturday.
Her words carried weight beyond politics. In 2011, France lost her leg in a devastating car accident — a life-altering moment that ignited her advocacy for public healthcare and disability rights. And in early 2023, she suffered another unimaginable blow: the loss of her 19-year-old son, Henry, to leukaemia.
“We discussed it a lot, and I thought I wouldn’t be running because I would be caring for him,” she said. “And he would say to me, ‘No, Mum, you have to do this. I know you’re going to win this time’. And I feel he’s been with me on this journey.”
France’s triumph is a story of grit, grief, and unwavering purpose. She had previously contested Dickson twice, falling short each time. But this year’s campaign — her third — was different.
Grounded in authenticity and propelled by a growing appetite for change, she connected with voters not just as a candidate, but as a mother, advocate, and survivor.
The defeat marks a seismic shift in Australian politics. Dutton — a key figure in the conservative movement and often one of the country’s most polarising politicians — conceded graciously.
“Ali and I have been combatants for a number of elections now, but she was successful in Dickson tonight and she will do a good job as a local member,” Dutton said at a party event in Brisbane.
But for many, the victory felt symbolic. France not only overcame physical and personal trauma to stand for office — she challenged entrenched power and won.
Her campaign emphasised stronger investment in public healthcare, inclusive policy-making, and elevating voices that are too often ignored. The message resonated.
Ali France’s win is more than a political result — it’s a reminder of resilience, the power of representation, and a changing Australia.
