Here’s a bold statement: Democracy in Australia is under siege, and the battle lines are being drawn between progressive forces and conservative groups like Advance. But here’s where it gets controversial—GetUp, the progressive political campaigning powerhouse, has just hired David Sharaz, a former journalist and public relations executive, to a senior role as it ramps up its fight against what it calls the ‘democratic threat’ posed by these conservative entities. Sharaz, married to Brittany Higgins—the former Liberal staffer at the center of a high-profile rape case that has shaken federal politics since 2021—brings a unique perspective to the table. His appointment comes as GetUp rebuilds its organizational strength, expands its workforce, and bolsters its financial position, which now includes a war chest of over $1 million. And this is the part most people miss—Sharaz will lead campaigns focused on media accountability, misinformation, and political operations, drawing inspiration from international movements like the UK’s Hacked Off. Interim co-chief executive Paul Ferris didn’t hold back, accusing media moguls like Rupert Murdoch of weaponizing their platforms to distort Australian politics. ‘We can’t allow this level of unchecked power,’ Ferris declared, emphasizing the growing threat of far-right groups that are becoming better organized and funded. Sharaz himself highlighted the urgency of the situation, pointing out that when people feel isolated or ignored, they’re pushed toward political extremes—a trend backed by recent polling. GetUp’s strategy? Expand its campaigning and communications efforts ahead of the 2028 federal election, targeting far-right groups while pushing the Albanese government for progressive policies. But here’s the kicker—Sharaz and Higgins were both bankrupted in defamation proceedings brought by Higgins’ former boss, Linda Reynolds, adding another layer of complexity to this already charged narrative. So, here’s the question: Is GetUp’s aggressive stance against conservative groups and media moguls a necessary defense of democracy, or does it risk polarizing an already divided political landscape? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is a conversation Australia needs to have.
