The article argues that media criticism of Pauline Hanson’s decision to exclude selected journalists from One Nation events is overstated, particularly the description of the policy as “censorship”. It says the exclusions are troubling and politically unwise, especially for a party seeking greater prominence, but do not prevent journalists from reporting, investigating or criticising One Nation.

The author distinguishes denial of access to a private event from state censorship, which suppresses publication or punishes reporting. He argues that all major political parties manage media access through exclusives, leaks, briefings and selective announcements, while One Nation uses a more overt and confrontational approach. The disputed event allowed The Australian to report revelations about Victorian leader Warren Pickering’s past drug use and drink-driving offences, while ABC and Guardian journalists were removed by hotel security.