YouGov Poll: Crypto Voters Could Influence Australia’s Federal Election
With Australia’s federal election approaching, a recent YouGov poll suggests that pro-crypto policies could become a decisive factor in determining the country’s next leadership. The poll, commissioned by Australian crypto exchange Swyftx, highlights that millions of voters may prioritize crypto-friendly candidates when casting their ballots.
Survey Findings: Crypto Voters Favor Pro-Crypto Candidates
According to the survey, which gathered responses from 2,031 Australian voters between February 3 and February 10, an estimated 59% of current crypto investors indicated they are more likely to vote for a pro-crypto candidate. With over 2.3 million voters reportedly aligning with this stance, the survey suggests that crypto advocates could tip the scales in what is expected to be a closely contested election. Swyftx CEO Jason TitmantoldSky News that the rise of crypto-focused voters marks a shift in the political environment, emphasizing that digital assets are becoming an increasingly relevant issue in Australian politics. Despite the strong support from the crypto community, the survey also found varied opinions across different age groups. One in three crypto holders claimed a candidate’s stance on crypto would not influence their vote, while 5% admitted a pro-crypto politician would deter them. Additionally, around 18% of surveyed voters aged over 50 indicated they were less likely to support a candidate advocating for crypto policies. The YouGov poll also revealed that the center-right Coalition, led by Peter Dutton, is currently in a stronger position to form a government, edging out Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s center-left Labor Party. However, with the Coalition projected to secure 73 seats, three short of the 76 needed to govern outright, Albanese may need independent and minor party support to retain power. While an official election date has not been announced, it must be held by May 17.
Crypto’s Growing Role in Political Campaigns
Australia is not the first country where crypto policies have entered election campaigns. In the United States, a November 2023 survey by The Harris Poll, commissioned by Grayscale Investments, found that 73% of U.S. voters believe presidential candidates should have an informed stance on emerging technologies like cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence. This sentiment was reinforced by an Emerson College poll, which revealed that nearly 20% of U.S. voters have engaged with crypto in some capacity. Notably, 57% of these respondents expressed a favorable view of Donald Trump, whose pro-crypto policies—including appointing industry-friendly regulators—helped him secure substantial support from digital asset investors. The global impact of crypto on politics extends beyond the U.S. In October 2024, Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of Japan’s Democratic Party for the People (DPP), proposed tax cuts and regulatory frameworks for digital assets in his election campaign. His manifesto also included increasing crypto trading leverage limits and introducing crypto ETFs in Japan. As awareness of digital assets continues to grow, political figures who shape thoughtful crypto policies may sway an expanding voter base. Australia’s upcoming vote demonstrates how an issue once considered niche can influence public priorities. With crypto becoming a key political topic, its influence on elections may redefine how candidates approach emerging technologies and how voters align with policy platforms.
