Progress Party (Australia)

The Progress Party was a minor political party in Australia, active primarily during the 1920s and 1930s. It represented agrarian interests, particularly those of wheat farmers and primary producers in rural areas of New South Wales. The party's platform generally advocated for policies that would benefit farmers, such as government assistance with marketing, infrastructure development in rural areas, and measures to stabilize agricultural prices.

The Progress Party achieved some limited electoral success at the state level in New South Wales, holding a small number of seats in the Legislative Assembly. It often played a kingmaker role in coalition governments, using its influence to advance its policy agenda. However, the party never achieved widespread national support.

The Progress Party's influence waned over time as other parties, such as the Country Party (later the National Party), emerged to more effectively represent rural interests. The party eventually faded from the political landscape. Although its specific policies and political relevance are largely historical now, the Progress Party represents a significant example of a regional political movement focused on agricultural advocacy within the Australian political system.