POLIS Index Australia for Political Parties
Highlights by Generational Cohort
Australians' ethical evaluations of political parties show consistent generational differences, but the overall pattern is clear—Labor is perceived as more ethically aligned than the Coalition across all age groups. Among Baby Boomers, Labor receives a POLIS score of 3.07, compared to 2.22 for the Coalition. This 0.85-point gap suggests that even older Australians view Labor as more trustworthy on values like fairness, legitimacy, and procedural accountability.
Generation X respondents rate Labor at 3.05 and the Coalition at 2.45. While this cohort narrows the gap slightly compared to Boomers, Labor still maintains a substantial ethical advantage. These scores indicate that Gen Xers also associate Labor with stronger institutional and moral credibility, reinforcing the party’s broad appeal across middle-aged Australians.
Millennials give Labor a POLIS score of 3.06 and the Coalition 2.15. This nearly one-point gap highlights a strong ethical preference for Labor among younger adults. Millennials are likely responding to the party’s alignment with values like equity, transparency, and social accountability—areas where the Coalition appears to face consistent trust deficits.
Generation Z shows the most pronounced divide. Labor scores 3.19—its highest among all generational groups—while the Coalition receives 2.12. The more than full-point difference suggests that Gen Z holds a particularly skeptical view of the Coalition’s ethical alignment. Labor’s strong performance in this group likely stems from its perceived commitment to inclusion, fairness, and future-focused governance.
Overall, the POLIS Index shows that while ethical perceptions of political parties vary in intensity across generational lines, the direction remains constant: Labor is viewed as more ethically credible than the Coalition. From the youngest voters to the oldest, Australians consistently rank Labor higher on key ethical values, underscoring a durable reputational advantage grounded in trust, accountability, and fairness.
What values do people in democratic nations want their political parties to imbue and represent?
Integrity
Integrity means acting consistently with one’s principles and telling the truth, even when it's inconvenient. In a democracy, people expect their political representatives to follow through on promises and live up to the values they claim to hold. Without integrity, public trust quickly erodes.
Benevolence
Benevolence reflects care, compassion, and a commitment to serving the public rather than personal or partisan interests. Citizens expect those in power to act in the best interest of society, especially for vulnerable or underserved groups. When benevolence is lacking, politics can feel distant and self-serving.
Accountability
Accountability means being answerable for decisions and willing to admit mistakes. Democratic systems rely on the idea that leaders serve the people and must face consequences if they fall short. When accountability is strong, citizens feel empowered to demand better.
Legitimacy
Legitimacy is the belief that those in power deserve their authority and represent the people fairly. It’s not just about winning elections — it’s about earning public trust through ethical, democratic leadership. Without legitimacy, political systems struggle to function effectively or peacefully.
Competence
Competence is the ability to get things done — to design effective policies, manage resources, and solve problems. In democratic societies, voters want leaders who can deliver real results and meet the needs of diverse communities. Good intentions matter, but capable execution is essential.
Transparency
Transparency is about openness — making decisions visible, explaining them clearly, and sharing information honestly. In a democracy, people have a right to know how decisions are made and why. Transparency builds public confidence and helps prevent corruption or manipulation.
Procedural Fairness
Procedural fairness ensures that rules are applied equally, decisions are made impartially, and everyone is treated with respect. In a diverse democracy, fairness is the foundation of legitimacy — it reassures people that the system is not biased or rigged. Fair processes create faith in just outcomes.