POLIS Index Australia for Political Parties
Highlights by 2SLGBTQ+ Identification
Ethical perceptions of political parties differ substantially between Australians who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ and those who do not, but Labor is consistently seen as the more ethically credible party. Among respondents who do not identify as 2SLGBTQ+, Labor receives a POLIS score of 3.09, while the Coalition scores 2.33. This group shows a strong preference for Labor on values like fairness, legitimacy, and accountability.
Among respondents who do identify as 2SLGBTQ+, the gap widens dramatically. Labor receives a POLIS score of 3.10, while the Coalition drops to just 1.75. This represents the largest gap between the two parties across all demographic groups analyzed, highlighting a significant ethical perception divide within this community. The Coalition’s low score likely reflects deep concerns about fairness, benevolence, and representation.
Notably, Labor’s POLIS score remains nearly identical across both groups—demonstrating broad, stable ethical appeal that transcends sexual and gender identity. This consistency underscores the party’s strong positioning on values important to equity-seeking communities, such as inclusion, transparency, and procedural justice.
The sharp drop in the Coalition’s score among 2SLGBTQ+ respondents highlights a reputational challenge that goes beyond partisan differences. It suggests that the party is viewed as lacking alignment with ethical values by those most attuned to issues of social equity and fairness. Even among non-2SLGBTQ+ Australians, the Coalition scores more than three-quarters of a point behind Labor.
Overall, the POLIS Index reveals that sexual and gender identity significantly shape ethical evaluations of political parties. While Labor maintains strong, stable support across the board, the Coalition faces serious trust deficits—especially among 2SLGBTQ+ Australians. These results underscore the importance of inclusive values and the reputational consequences of perceived exclusion or misalignment with diverse communities.
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.