Retired Perth car salesman becomes second largest political donor in Voice to Parliament referendum

A retired Perth car salesman and dealership owner has emerged as the second largest political donor in the Voice to Parliament referendum, pouring over $1 million into the campaign led by right-wing organization Advance Australia.

Brian Hadley Anderson, through his company Hadley Holdings Pty Ltd, made a total donation of $1.025 million to Advance Australia during late 2022, according to recently published data from the Australian Electoral Commission.

The sizeable donation from Anderson has further solidified his position as a prominent figure in the political landscape, as he actively supported the No campaign in the referendum held to decide on the Voice to Parliament initiative.

Advance Australia, the recipient of this substantial financial contribution, played a pivotal role in advocating against the proposed change to the country’s political system. The organization centered its campaign on the belief that establishing an Indigenous Voice to the Parliament would create division and lead to a form of apartheid.

The latest figures released by the Australian Electoral Commission highlight Anderson’s significant financial investment, making him one of the most influential contributors in the past financial year.

The Voice to Parliament referendum, which took place in late 2022, aimed to gauge public opinion on whether to establish a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous advisory body.