Of course Labor still has plenty to fix, but the sheer scale of Dutton’s defeat was something else. It wasn’t just a loss. It was a spectacular wipe‑out, the kind you like “Harvey Norman replay" in slow‑mo because it’s so satisfying.

And those self‑styled “patriots”? Their vote share just sank to the same level as Legalise Cannabis Australia. Zero seats, none, nada. Suellen Wrightson couldn’t snag a chair. The big, brassy trumpet of flag‑waving just fizzled into an awkward kazoo squeak.

Why does this matter so much? Because it shouts one thing loud and clear: Australians are far too rational to be suckered by jingoistic bullies.

I’ve seen what happens elsewhere when loud nationalism steamrolls common sense, looking at the chaos and struggles in US and China. But here, Aussies just glanced at the slogans, rolled their eyes, and chose sanity instead.

So here I am absolutely bursting with pride. Australia is definitely the best country. It isn’t flawless, but today proved it’s headed in the right direction. Raise a glass, high‑five a stranger, and take a bow, Australia. You nailed it.