Tony Abbott Urges Australians to Leave Money to Rightwing Group Advance to ‘Protect Values’
Former PM Backs New Offshoot “Advance Generations” in Push for Legacy Donations
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has thrown his support behind Advance Generations, a newly launched offshoot of the conservative advocacy group Advance, encouraging Australians to consider leaving money in their wills to support the organisation’s mission.
In a message to supporters, Abbott claimed that contributing to the group would help “protect Australian values” and ensure future generations continue to uphold what he describes as “traditional beliefs” and patriotism.
What Is Advance Generations?
Advance Generations is a new fundraising arm of the conservative group Advance, known for its hardline stance on political and cultural issues, and its influential digital campaigns targeting progressive causes.
The offshoot has a clear aim: secure bequests from older Australians to fund its long-term efforts, especially around what it views as a cultural and ideological battle for Australia’s future.
The campaign is being promoted as a way to safeguard conservative values for future generations, particularly amid what Advance calls a growing wave of progressive “indoctrination” in schools and institutions.
Abbott: Donations Will “Protect Australian Values”
Tony Abbott’s endorsement lends significant political weight to the campaign. In a video message, the former Liberal leader said:
“By supporting Advance Generations, you’re investing in the future of our country. You’re helping to protect Australian values—our freedoms, our traditions, our pride in our history.”
Abbott’s appeal is targeted at supporters of conservative causes, urging them to see their legacy not just in terms of family, but also in shaping the nation’s direction.
Controversy Over Welcome to Country Criticism
In promoting Advance Generations, the group also repeated its controversial criticism of Welcome to Country ceremonies, claiming they are being used as a “tool to indoctrinate children.”
This rhetoric has sparked fresh backlash, particularly from First Nations advocates and progressive politicians, who view Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country ceremonies as essential acts of recognition and respect.
Advance’s opposition to such cultural practices forms part of its broader campaign against what it frames as “woke ideology” in Australian schools and institutions.
Advance’s Influence in Australian Politics
The original group Advance Australia (commonly referred to simply as Advance) has made headlines for its aggressive social media campaigns, its opposition to the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, and its role in conservative political organising.
While not officially affiliated with any political party, Advance has been widely viewed as aligned with the right wing of the Liberal Party and has supported figures like Peter Dutton and Tony Abbott in the past.
Advance Generations appears to be the group’s latest strategy to build long-term funding through generational wealth transfer.
Critics Warn of Political Polarisation
The launch of Advance Generations has raised concerns from critics who say the group is exploiting older Australians’ fears and contributing to political polarisation.
Progressive groups argue that efforts like this distort public conversation around education, culture, and Indigenous recognition—especially when backed by former national leaders.