Former Donald Trump strategist Steve Bannon privately claimed he encouraged Australian billionaire Clive Palmer to fund a massive advertising campaign during the 2019 federal election, according to newly released messages linked to Jeffrey Epstein.
In a message dated 20 May 2019, Bannon told an account appearing to belong to Epstein that he had Palmer run what he described as “$60m anti-China and anti-climate change ads” during the election campaign, two days after Labor’s shock loss.
The messages form part of material released from a US investigation into Epstein’s communications before his death in custody in August 2019. While the documents provide limited new insight into Epstein’s ties with Donald Trump, they shed light on conversations involving global political operatives and wealthy donors.
Electoral records later showed Palmer spent $83.6 million promoting the United Australia Party, making it the most expensive political advertising campaign in Australian history. The advertising targeted then Labor leader Bill Shorten, opposed climate policies and warned about China’s influence in Australian politics.
Epstein responded to Bannon by arguing that traditional polling and campaigning had been overtaken by online mobilisation, citing both the Australian election and Trump’s 2016 victory. Bannon replied that this broader populist strategy was the objective, describing Australia as part of a wider international sequence.
Labor’s post-election review concluded Palmer’s spending crowded out Labor advertising and warned that unchecked political spending by wealthy individuals posed a threat to democratic integrity.
Bannon and Palmer have been contacted for comment.
