As Australians head to the polls this Saturday, one thing is clear: pro-crypto regulation is finally on the agenda—no matter which major party wins. After years of delay and political ambiguity, both the ruling Labor Party and opposition Liberals are committed to introducing legislation shaped by industry consultation.
Crypto Policy Quiet, But Progress Is Promised
Despite speculation that crypto-savvy voters—estimated at around two million—could sway the election, digital assets have been largely absent from campaign discourse.
“It’s a missed opportunity,” said Adrian Przelozny, founder of crypto exchange Independent Reserve. “Neither side has made crypto a headline issue because they’re wary of polarizing voters or sounding too niche.”
Nonetheless, behind the scenes, momentum is building. In April, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor pledged to publish draft crypto regulations within the first 100 days if the Liberal Party wins power. Meanwhile, the current Treasury has scheduled draft legislation on digital asset platform regulation and payment system modernization for release this quarter.
Amy-Rose Goodey, CEO of the Digital Economy Council of Australia, believes bipartisan support marks a turning point. “Irrespective of who gets in, we’re in a better position than we were about a year ago,” she said.
Minor Parties Push Bold Crypto Agendas
While major parties remain cautious, minor parties are courting pro-crypto voters more directly.
- The Libertarian Party released a 23-page Bitcoin policy in March, advocating for Bitcoin to become legal tender and proposing the creation of a national Bitcoin reserve.
- The party is fielding five Senate candidates across various states, including ex-Liberal MP Craig Kelly.
- One Nation, a right-wing party, has campaigned against central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and the practice of debanking.
- The Greens, Australia’s progressive left-wing party, have yet to take a clear stance on crypto.
For Australia’s crypto community, the bipartisan push for regulation marks a significant shift after more than a decade of political inertia. With both sides now committed to drafting legislation informed by industry voices, the path is finally opening for meaningful regulatory clarity.
