GetUp, a progressive political campaign organization, has made a bold move by hiring David Sharaz, a former journalist and public relations executive, to a senior position. This hiring decision comes at a time when GetUp aims to strengthen its presence and take on conservative groups, particularly Advance, which it sees as a threat to democracy.
Sharaz, who is married to Brittany Higgins, a former Liberal staffer at the center of a high-profile rape case, will lead GetUp's campaigns focused on media accountability, misinformation, and political operations. He will draw on the experiences of international organizations like the UK's Hacked Off media reform campaign.
GetUp's interim co-chief executive, Paul Ferris, believes this appointment reflects the changing political landscape in Australia. He highlights the influence of billionaire media moguls like Rupert Murdoch, who, according to Ferris, have used their platforms to distort politics and pursue personal vendettas.
"The democratic threat is real," Ferris warns, adding that far-right groups are becoming more organized and funded, using traditional media and social platforms to further their agendas.
GetUp, with its growing membership and financial resources, is determined to counter this threat. Sharaz shares this vision, stating that the organization plans to expand its campaigning efforts leading up to the 2028 federal election. Their focus will be on combating far-right groups and advocating for progressive policies from the Albanese government.
"Isolated, ignored, and disenfranchised people are pushed towards the political fringes," Sharaz explains, referencing recent polling data. "It's crucial for people's concerns to be taken seriously and reflected in our political discourse."
The rape case involving Higgins and Coalition staffer Bruce Lehrmann has had a significant impact. Lehrmann was charged with rape but pleaded not guilty. While a criminal trial was abandoned due to juror misconduct, a subsequent civil trial found Lehrmann liable for rape based on the balance of probability. Lehrmann is currently challenging this ruling in the High Court.
In addition to the legal proceedings, both Higgins and Sharaz faced bankruptcy in a defamation case brought by Linda Reynolds, the former defense minister.
This story highlights the complex intersection of politics, media, and personal lives, raising important questions about the role of conservative groups, media influence, and the impact of political scandals on individuals and society as a whole. What are your thoughts on this evolving narrative? Feel free to share your perspectives in the comments below!
