Nick Xenophon

Nick Xenophon was born Nicholas Xenophou in Adelaide, South Australia, to Theo Xenophou from Cyprus, and Georgia from Greece as the oldest of two children. Xenophon attended Prince Alfred College from 1965 to 1976 where he achieved three As in English, Mathematics and Economics, and his father was involved with college fundraising.Prince Alfred College 'Chronicle' October 1976, www.pac.edu.au. He studied for a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Adelaide. From 1976 until 1981, he was a member of the Liberal Party of Australia and the Young Liberals. In his first year, Xenophon was elected on the Adelaide University Liberal Club ticket to On Dit student magazine. In his university days Xenophon was a reactionary conservative who held numerous views against women's liberation, gay rights, squatters' rights, Marxism, the anti-Apartheid movement, the anti-nuclear movement and the anti-free traders (all views he later departed from).https://www.buzzfeed.com/aliceworkman/xenophon-the-young-liberal At the end of his eighteen-month term, Xenophon wrote as a whistleblower in On Dit that the Young Liberals had rigged the 1976-77 vote in order to secure the unlikely victory of their editing team. According to Xenophon, the party politics of the On Dit incident disenchanted him, although some Labor members maintain that he considered joining the Australian Labor Party while at university.{{cite news |last=Walker |first=Jamie |date=28 June 2008 |title=From brash Young Liberal to Senate linchpin for Nick Xenophon |work=The Australian |url=http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23932382-5006787,00.html |url-status=dead |access-date=15 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090301152941/http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23932382-5006787,00.html |archive-date=1 March 2009|df=dmy-all}}

In 2015, the publishers of former Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard's 2014 memoir, My Story, retracted an allegation and made a public apology after writing that Xenophon had been "infamously excluded from university for a period as punishment for stuffing a ballot box full of voting papers he had somehow procured".{{cite web |last=Patty |first=Anna |date=23 February 2015 |title=Publisher of Julia Gillard's book retracts Nick Xenophon allegations |url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/publisher-of-julia-gillards-book-retracts-nick-xenophon-allegations-20150223-13mri5.html |access-date=15 August 2022 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |archive-date=26 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026112455/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/publisher-of-julia-gillards-book-retracts-nick-xenophon-allegations-20150223-13mri5.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Clark |first=Andrew |date=3 June 2016 |title=Election 2016: Nick Xenophon takes an old student row to a Senate showdown |url=http://www.afr.com/news/politics/election/election-2016-nick-xenophon-takes-an-old-student-row-to-a-senate-showdown-20160602-gp9rvw |access-date=15 August 2022 |website=Financial Review |archive-date=18 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118160350/https://www.afr.com/news/politics/election/election-2016-nick-xenophon-takes-an-old-student-row-to-a-senate-showdown-20160602-gp9rvw |url-status=live }}

In 1982 and 1983, Xenophon worked as a lawyer in the private practice of Jacob van Dissel. In 1984, van Dissel gave Xenophon the personal injury part of his practice, enabling Xenophon to become principal of his new firm, Xenophon & Co. Lawyers. The firm continues and deals primarily with workers compensation and personal injury claims on a no-win-no-fee basis.{{cite web |title=Xenophon & Co Lawyers website |url=http://www.xenlaw.com.au/ |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=Xenlaw.com.au |archive-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110902123057/http://www.xenlaw.com.au/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author=ABC News |author-link=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=24 July 2008 |title=Welcome to the Senate |work=Q&A: Adventures in Democracy |url=http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda/txt/s2306983.htm |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=14 December 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091214230644/http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda/txt/s2306983.htm |url-status=live }}

In 1994 and 1997, Xenophon served as President of the South Australian branch of the Australian Plaintiff Lawyers' Association. During this time, he also taught law at the University of South Australia, where his future political opponent Christopher Pyne was among his students.{{cite news|title=Quick on the law|work=The Advertiser|location=Adelaide, Australia|date=7 November 1998|page=53}}

In 2019, the Australian Financial Review reported that his law firm was representing Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei, who Xenophon claims have "been treated incredibly unfairly".{{Cite web |last=AAP |date=2019-12-02 |title=Xenophon Huawei's new legal counsel |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/xenophon-huawei-s-new-legal-counsel/a7d07f43-e38e-4eb3-8d11-4098dc274fc6 |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=9news |archive-date=2 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191202073108/https://www.9news.com.au/national/xenophon-huawei-s-new-legal-counsel/a7d07f43-e38e-4eb3-8d11-4098dc274fc6 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Pelly |first=Michael |date=2019-12-02 |title=Xenophon gets into bed with Huawei – for a fee |url=https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/xenophon-gets-into-bed-with-huawei-for-a-fee-20191201-p53frh |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=Financial Review |language=en |archive-date=2 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191202065431/https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/xenophon-gets-into-bed-with-huawei-for-a-fee-20191201-p53frh |url-status=live }} He also represents the military whistleblower, David McBride.{{Cite web |last=Xenophon |first=Nick |date=2020-11-17 |title=If moral courage matters, this whistleblower needs defending |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/if-moral-courage-matters-this-whistleblower-needs-defending-20201116-p56ey4.html |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=The Age |archive-date=7 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107231944/https://www.theage.com.au/national/if-moral-courage-matters-this-whistleblower-needs-defending-20201116-p56ey4.html |url-status=live }}

File:Nickxenophonspeakstothemediaatparliamenthouse.jpg

Xenophon considers himself to be a centrist politician{{cite web |last=Warhurst |first=John |date=2014-12-10 |title=Nick Xenophon's NXT party faces same challenges as Independents |url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-opinion/nick-xenophons-nxt-party-faces-same-challenges-as-independents-20141210-123cpa.html |access-date=2022-08-15 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald}}{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2007-10-18 |title=Recognise these men? They may hold balance of power |work=The Age |url=http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2007/10/17/1192300859185.html |access-date=2022-08-15 |archive-date=13 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113225432/http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2007/10/17/1192300859185.html |url-status=live }} with strong views against poker machine gambling.

In 2008, The Australian quoted many Liberal and Labor politicians who believed Xenophon had shown himself to be a "lightweight" political opportunist during his decade in state politics.

In 2010, Xenophon sought to introduce anti-cult legislation similar to that of France's anti-cult legislation, primarily targeting the Church of Scientology and its tax-exempt status.{{Cite web |last=Cardwell |first=Samuel |date=2010-05-24 |title=Xenophon calls for anti-cult laws |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/xenophon-calls-for-anticult-laws-20100524-w76e.html |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |archive-date=26 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726021046/https://www.smh.com.au/national/xenophon-calls-for-anticult-laws-20100524-w76e.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Leslie |first=Tim |date=2010-03-13 |title=Xenophon ramps up anti-Scientology crusade |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2010-03-13/xenophon-ramps-up-anti-scientology-crusade/363396 |access-date=2022-08-15 |archive-date=26 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726021046/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2010-03-13/xenophon-ramps-up-anti-scientology-crusade/363396 |url-status=live }}

In 2012, Xenophon co-sponsored a bill with Victorian Senator John Madigan to restrict federal government subsidies for wind farms. Xenophon's concerns about wind turbines were predominantly related to anecdotal evidence of health problems and the reliability of wind-sourced power.{{cite web |author=Xenophon |first=Nick |date=2012-02-08 |title=Win(d) for common sense: Stony Gap wind farm knocked back - Wind Energy News |url=https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/08/02/wind-for-common-sense-stony-gap-wind-farm-knocked-back/ |access-date=2022-08-15 |work=National Wind Watch |archive-date=8 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150408010057/http://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/08/02/wind-for-common-sense-stony-gap-wind-farm-knocked-back/ |url-status=live }}

In 2015, Xenophon appealed in person to Indonesia's largest Islamic body to support a reprieve for two Australian convicted drug smugglers sentenced to death in Bali. Xenophon's translator reportedly stated, “We are aware that the death penalty is the right of the Indonesian government. Therefore, we do not ask that it be cancelled but plead that it be delayed”.{{cite web |author=Lamb |first=Kate |date=2015-03-11 |title=Nick Xenophon appeals to Indonesian Muslims to support Bali Nine reprieve |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/11/nick-xenophon-appeals-to-indonesian-muslims-to-support-bali-nine-reprieve |access-date=2022-08-15 |work=The Guardian |archive-date=6 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161006054800/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/11/nick-xenophon-appeals-to-indonesian-muslims-to-support-bali-nine-reprieve |url-status=live }}

In 2018 during the 2018 South Australian state election, Xenophon and his party pushed for a law that crystal methamphetamine users in South Australia will be forced into drug rehabilitation.{{Cite news |last1=Harmsen |first1=Nick |last2=MacLennan |first2=Leah |date=2018-02-27 |title=Nick Xenophon pushes for mandatory ice rehab facilities |newspaper=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-27/xenophon-calls-for-mandatory-ice-detox-centres/9489380 |access-date=2022-08-15 |archive-date=16 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220216134140/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-27/xenophon-calls-for-mandatory-ice-detox-centres/9489380 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=AAP |date=2018-02-27 |title=SA-BEST calls for mandatory drug rehab |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/sa-best-calls-for-mandatory-drug-rehab/53ec6811-e154-431e-87e4-698e7a63b02c |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=SBS News |archive-date=16 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220216134140/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/sa-best-calls-for-mandatory-drug-rehab/53ec6811-e154-431e-87e4-698e7a63b02c |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Opray |first=Max |date=2018-02-27 |title=South Australia election: Xenophon's party to force ice users into rehab |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/feb/27/south-australia-election-xenophons-party-to-force-ice-users-into-rehab |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=The Guardian |archive-date=16 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220216134326/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/feb/27/south-australia-election-xenophons-party-to-force-ice-users-into-rehab |url-status=live }}

At the 1997 state election, Xenophon stood for the South Australian Legislative Council under an Independent No Pokies ticket, advocating the reduction and abolition of poker machines (colloquially known as "pokies"). He received a vote of 2.86 percent, a statewide total of 25,630 votes – much less than the 8.33 per cent needed to be elected in his own right – but by receiving a large number of preferences first from microparties and then from Grey Power, he went from a quota of 0.34 to 1.08 and was therefore elected.{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/elections/sa/2006/guide/lchistory.htm|title=Legislative Council Background. South Australia Election 2006|last=Green|first=Antony|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|access-date=17 November 2009|archive-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201025449/http://www.abc.net.au/elections/sa/2006/guide/lchistory.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite SA-parl |pid=604 |name=Mr Nick Xenophon |former=yes |access-date=20 August 2022}} This made Xenophon the first independent elected to the Legislative Council in 60 years.

Following the 1997 election, the Olsen Liberal government needed the support of an additional two non-Liberal upper house members in order to pass legislation, with the Australian Democrats retaining the balance of power on three seats. However, defectors from Labor in the upper house, Terry Cameron and Trevor Crothers, often brought Xenophon in to play. In 1998, Xenophon voted with Cameron and the government to proceed with the second reading of the ETSA power sale bill.{{cite news|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_go1877/is_2_45/ai_n28735494/pg_3/ |title=South Australia: The Australian Journal of Politics and History June 1999 |publisher=Findarticles.com |access-date=30 November 2011}}{{cite web |url=http://www.petroleum-economist.com/Article/2827341/Australia-debates-sell-offs-as-elections-loom.html |title=Australia debates sell offs as elections loom: Petroleum Economist 2 October 1998 |publisher=Petroleum-economist.com |date=2 October 1998 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=2 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402031900/http://www.petroleum-economist.com/Article/2827341/Australia-debates-sell-offs-as-elections-loom.html |url-status=live }} The bill became law when Cameron and Crothers voted with the Liberal government, although Xenophon voted against the bill in its final form.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Dh5Z_qYIedYC&q=cameron+crothers+etsa&pg=PA45 |title=Power politics: the electricity crisis and you |isbn=9781862546066 |access-date=30 November 2011|last1=Spoehr |first1=John |year=2003 |publisher=Wakefield Press }} Following the election of the Rann Labor government at the 2002 state election, the government needed an additional five non-Labor upper house members to pass legislation, giving a shared balance of power to the Democrats on three seats, incumbent independents Xenophon and Cameron, with the Family First Party winning their first seat.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

Xenophon was an activist for a range of issues apart from the elimination of poker machines, speaking out on consumer rights, essential services, the environment, taxation, and perks for politicians. Xenophon was also vocal in the Eugene McGee hit and run affair, becoming an advocate for the victim's wife, with public opinion eventually forcing the Kapunda Road Royal Commission that led to harsher laws for hit and run offences.{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2005/s1369386.htm|title=Legal eagles discuss justice system|date=13 May 2005|work=Stateline (ABC)|access-date=17 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070708075918/http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2005/s1369386.htm|archive-date=8 July 2007|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

At the 2006 state election, he ran an aggressive campaign and attracted considerable publicity through a range of imaginative stunts, including riding a model locomotive "gravy train" outside Parliament House to protest MPs' superannuation entitlements, parading along Rundle Mall wearing a sandwich board to advertise his campaign, and bringing a small goat to Parliament urging voters not to "kid around" with their vote.{{cite news|title=SA: Stunt MP turns human sandwich board|last=Ahwan|first=Lauren|date=6 February 2006|agency=Associated Press}}{{cite news|title=Vote for me, I kid you not, is Nick's message|last=Anderson|first=Laura|date=18 March 2006|work=The Advertiser|page=11}}

Despite media speculation that he would struggle to be re-elected due to the major parties preferencing against him, he attracted sufficient funding and volunteers to staff most state booths on polling day.{{cite journal |last= Manning |first= Dr Haydon |date=December 2006 |title= Australian Political Chronicle: January–June 2006 |journal= Australian Journal of Politics and History |volume= 52 |issue= 4 |page= 668|issn=0004-9522}} He received 190,958 first preferences or 20.51 per cent of the total vote, enough to not only be re-elected himself, but also to elect the second No Pokies candidate, Ann Bressington.{{cite web|url=http://www.adelaide.edu.au/news/news10602.html|title=Victory for Labor and Xenophon (Media Release)|last=McCarthy|first=Dr Greg|date=20 March 2006|access-date=17 November 2009|archive-date=23 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110523050049/http://www.adelaide.edu.au/news/news10602.html|url-status=live}} McCarthy is a senior lecturer in politics at the University of Adelaide.{{cite web|url=http://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/archive/2006/results/legislative.htm |title=Results for Legislative Council |author=Electoral Commission of South Australia |date=5 April 2006 |access-date=17 November 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024120042/http://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/archive/2006/results/legislative.htm |archive-date=24 October 2009 }} His total was 5.46 per cent less than the Liberal Party, and he outpolled the Liberals in some booths, including the electoral district of Enfield.{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/elections/sa/2006/weblog/200603/s1595132.htm|title=The Poll Vault: Xenophon looking good|date=18 March 2006|work=ABC News Online: Elections|access-date=17 November 2009|archive-date=2 March 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090302205311/http://www.abc.net.au/elections/sa/2006/weblog/200603/s1595132.htm|url-status=live}} With the Labor government needing four non-Labor upper house members to pass legislation, No Pokies on two seats shared the balance of power with Family First on two seats, the Democrats on one seat, with the SA Greens winning their first seat.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}

On 11 October 2007, Xenophon called a press conference at the Adelaide Zoo in front of the giraffe enclosure, declaring he would "stick his neck out for South Australia" by announcing his resignation from the South Australian Legislative Council in an attempt to gain election to the Australian Senate at the 2007 federal election.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/11/2056680.htm |title=Colourful independent seeks move to Canberra |work=ABC Online |date=11 October 2007 |access-date=19 November 2009 |archive-date=19 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110219230523/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/11/2056680.htm |url-status=dead }} His platform consisted of anti-gambling and consumer protection measures, attention to the water crisis affecting the Murray River, ratifying Kyoto, opposition against a "decrease in state rights", and opposition to WorkChoices.{{cite news|title=Fearful of Xenophon in Senate|last=Debelle|first=Penelope|work=The Age |location=Australia|date=12 October 2007}}{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2006/s2059626.htm|title=Mr X goes to Canberra|last=Royal|first=Simon|work=Stateline SA (ABC)|date=12 October 2007|access-date=17 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090302172540/http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2006/s2059626.htm|archive-date=2 March 2009|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2006/s2059634.htm |title=Live Interview Senator Natasha Stott Despoja; Megan Lloyd (Messenger Newspapers) |last=Henschke |first=Ian |work=Stateline SA (ABC) |date=12 October 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110122859/http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/sa/content/2006/s2059634.htm |archive-date=10 November 2012 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }} Nick Minchin, a Liberal senator from South Australia, urged people not to vote for Xenophon.{{cite news |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nick-minchin-stirs-sa-senate-tensions/story-e6frg6no-1225720690701 |last=Owen |first=Michael |title=Nick Minchin stirs SA Senate tensions |work=The Australian |date=4 June 2009 |access-date=19 March 2010 |archive-date=8 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008190252/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nick-minchin-stirs-sa-senate-tensions/story-e6frg6no-1225720690701 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/12/2057774.htm |title=No Pokies MP odds-on for Senate seat |last=Haxton |first=Nance |work=ABC Online |date=12 October 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=19 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110219224100/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/12/2057774.htm |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |title=Minor parties prefer Mr X |date=4 November 2007 |last=Nankervis |first=David |work=The Advertiser}} Due to running as an independent Xenophon's name did not appear above the line on the ticket, instead he was represented only by the letter "S" above the line, with voters having to search for his details.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/12/2058428.htm |title=Libs to put heat on Xenophon: analyst |work=ABC Online |date=12 October 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=2 March 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090302205347/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/12/2058428.htm |url-status=dead }}

As Xenophon had vacated his Legislative Council seat to run for the Senate, a joint sitting of the South Australian parliament was convened for 21 November 2007 to select Xenophon's replacement. Former valuer-general John Darley, who had stood as the third candidate on Xenophon's ticket in 2006, was appointed.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/13/2089751.htm |title=SA Govt agrees to Xenophon's choice |work=ABC Online |date=13 November 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=3 March 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303021112/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/13/2089751.htm |url-status=dead }} During the joint sitting convened to confirm the nomination, Ann Bressington criticised Xenophon, questioning his integrity and suitability for federal parliament, suggesting that his "anti-politician" image was more spin than reality.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/21/2096834.htm |title=MPs stunned by Xenophon blast |work=ABC Online |date=21 November 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=23 January 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080123213954/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/21/2096834.htm |url-status=dead }} She also said Xenophon had demanded she contribute AU$50,000 towards campaign expenses at the 2006 state election. Xenophon said in response that he was "shocked and hurt" and "deeply upset" that she had failed to share her concerns with him in person, saying "privately and publicly, I have been very supportive of her."{{cite news|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/big-blow-for-mr-x/story-e6freo8c-1111114927891|title=Nick Xenophon's running mate unleashes extraordinary attack|work=The Advertiser|date=1 November 2007|access-date=19 July 2011|archive-date=13 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110813115226/http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/big-blow-for-mr-x/story-e6freo8c-1111114927891|url-status=live}}

Some whose causes Xenophon had championed also came forward to defend Xenophon, including Di Gilcrist, whose husband's hit and run death resulted in the Kapunda Road Royal Commission. In an interview the following day, Gilcrist said "based on my experience not only as a victim who's dealt with Nick but also somebody who's worked with Nick and his office... Nick is passionate and he cares and he is empathetic. And he is truly committed."{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2007/s2098060.htm |title=State MP launches scathing attack on Xenophon |last=Haxton |first=Nance |date=22 November 2007 |work=World Today (ABC) |access-date=19 July 2011 |archive-date=10 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110123338/http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2007/s2098060.htm |url-status=live }} Lower House independent Kris Hanna also defended Xenophon, arguing Bressington had "obviously been out to do some damage" and injure Xenophon's election chances.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/22/2098639.htm?site=elections/federal/2007|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121231061721/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/11/22/2098639.htm?site=elections/federal/2007|url-status=dead|archive-date=31 December 2012| title=Xenophon 'hurt and bewildered' by Parliament attack |work=ABC Online |date=22 November 2007 |access-date=19 July 2011}}

Towards the end of the campaign, Xenophon walked a large mule down Rundle Mall to symbolise his stubbornness. He received 14.78 percent of the vote.{{cite web |url=http://results.aec.gov.au/13745/website/SenateStateFirstPrefs-13745-SA.htm |title=Senate – First Preferences by Candidate – SA |date=20 December 2007 |author=Australian Electoral Commission |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-date=30 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090930133124/http://results.aec.gov.au/13745/Website/SenateStateFirstPrefs-13745-SA.htm |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.sapo.org.au/binary/binary6881/2007.doc |title=South Australians at the polls: The 2007 national election result analysed |last=Manning |first=Haydon |date=20 December 2007 |access-date=17 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110412183328/http://www.sapo.org.au/binary/binary6881/2007.doc |archive-date=12 April 2011 |url-status=dead }} School of Political and International Studies, Flinders University. This was down from his 2006 state election result of over 20%.

File:Nick Xenophon cropped.jpg

Xenophon shared the balance of power in the Senate with the Australian Greens and the Family First Party. The First Rudd government required the support of two crossbench senators or the opposition to pass legislation.{{cite web|url=http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2011/09/can-the-coalition-win-control-of-the-senate-through-a-half-senate-election.html|title=Can the Coalition win Control of the Senate through a Half-Senate Election?|access-date=7 July 2016|archive-date=26 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926153944/http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2011/09/can-the-coalition-win-control-of-the-senate-through-a-half-senate-election.html|url-status=live}}

In February 2009, the Rudd government needed to pass its AU$42 billion economic stimulus package. Xenophon initially voted against the package, but ultimately voted in favour after amendments were made. Xenophon persuaded the government to bring forward AU$900 million in Murray-Darling basin funds and other water projects, which included AU$500 million over three years for water buybacks.{{cite news | last = Hudson | first = Phillip | date = 13 February 2009 | title = Senate passes stimulus plan | work = The Sydney Morning Herald | location = Sydney, Australia | url = http://business.smh.com.au/business/deal-reached-on-stimulus-package-20090213-86mp.html | access-date = 18 November 2009 | archive-date = 16 October 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211016202506/https://www.smh.com.au/business/senate-passes-stimulus-plan-20090213-86mp.html | url-status = live }}{{cite news | last = Gout | first = Hendrik | date = 20 February 2009 | title = Senator Xenophon's audacious bluff | work = The Independent Weekly | location = Adelaide, Australia | url = http://www.independentweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/senator-xenophons-audacious-bluff/1439707.aspx | access-date =18 November 2009 }}

In November 2009, Xenophon labelled the Church of Scientology as a criminal organisation, alleging members had experienced blackmail, torture and violence, labour camps and forced imprisonment, and coerced abortions.{{cite news | last = Xenophon | first = Nick | date = 18 November 2009 | title = Australian Senator Nick Xenophon's speech on Church of Scientology in full |work=The Times | location = London, United Kingdom | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article6921267.ece | access-date =19 November 2009 }}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}{{cite news | last = Bita | first = Natasha | date = 18 November 2009 | title = Scientology criminal, says senator Nick Xenophon | work = The Australian | url = http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/scientology-criminal-says-senator-nick-xenophon/story-e6frg6nf-1225799077820 | access-date = 18 November 2009 | archive-date = 8 October 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111008185516/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/scientology-criminal-says-senator-nick-xenophon/story-e6frg6nf-1225799077820 | url-status = live }}{{cite news|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/science-or-fiction/story-e6frg6z6-1225799903311|title=Science or fiction?|last=Bita|first=Natasha|work=The Australian|date=20 November 2009|access-date=19 March 2010|archive-date=5 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105203725/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/science-or-fiction/story-e6frg6z6-1225799903311|url-status=live}} On 7 September 2010, a Senate committee recommended that a charities commission be formed with the purpose of investigating and monitoring transparency of charitable organisations.{{cite news | title = Bipartisan support for charities commission | work = ABC News | publisher = Australian Broadcasting Corporation | date = 7 September 2010 | url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/09/07/3005360.htm | access-date = 7 September 2010 | archive-date = 9 October 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101009071512/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/09/07/3005360.htm | url-status = dead }} This recommendation received bipartisan support.{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/lateline/content/2011/s3319927.htm |title=Xenophon disappointed by Scientology report: Lateline 16 September 2011 |publisher=ABC |location=Australia |date=16 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=25 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111125161837/http://www.abc.net.au/lateline/content/2011/s3319927.htm |url-status=live }}

In July 2011, Xenophon lost the balance of power to the Greens,{{cite news |last=Hockley |first=Catherine |url=http://www.news.com.au/national/south-australian-senator-nick-xenophon-loses-the-balance-of-power/story-e6frfkvr-1226076127522#ixzz1Y9pa26sU |title=South Australian independent Senator Nick Xenophon set to lose balance of power: The Advertiser 15 June 2011 |publisher=News.com.au |date=15 June 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=6 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806000047/http://www.news.com.au/national/south-australian-senator-nick-xenophon-loses-the-balance-of-power/story-e6frfkvr-1226076127522#ixzz1Y9pa26sU |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Austin |first=Nigel |url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/farmers-pay-price-for-our-groceries/story-e6frea6u-1226131680619 |title=Farmers pay price for our groceries: AdelaideNow 8 September 2011 |publisher=Adelaidenow.com.au |date=8 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=11 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120911095535/http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/farmers-pay-price-for-our-groceries/story-e6frea6u-1226131680619 |url-status=live }} however his anti-pokies stance was bolstered when independent Andrew Wilkie was elected to the lower house at the 2010 election, resulting in a hung parliament. Wilkie had campaigned heavily against pokies at the election.{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2010/s2994058.htm |title=Wilkie, Xenophon team up against pokies: ABC The World Today 26 August 2010 |publisher=ABC |location=Australia |date=2 October 1980 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=13 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113105612/http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2010/s2994058.htm |url-status=live }} In exchange for Wilkie's support, the Gillard government legislated for mandatory precommitment technology which would require people using high-bet machines to pre-commit how much they were willing to bet on a machine before actually playing,{{cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2011/s3245356.htm |title=Wilkie's Gamble: ABC Four Corners 20 June 2011 |publisher=ABC |location=Australia |date=20 June 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110902024754/http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/content/2011/s3245356.htm |archive-date=2 September 2011 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }} as well as introducing safer AU$1 maximum bet per spin machines, which would not require pre-commitment.{{cite web|author=Cowboy |url=http://www.international.to/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2215:andrew-wilkie-complains-about-opposition-to-his-poker-machine-plans&catid=80:politics&Itemid=120 |title=Andrew Wilkie complains about opposition to his poker machine plans: The International 1 September 2011 |publisher=International.to |date=4 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328055328/http://www.international.to/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2215%3Aandrew-wilkie-complains-about-opposition-to-his-poker-machine-plans&catid=80%3Apolitics&Itemid=120 |archive-date=28 March 2012 }} The plan came under sustained attack from sporting clubs and various businesses that financially benefit from poker machine use.{{cite web|url=http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8351969 |title=Wilkie is fearless on pokies says Xenophon: NineMSN 26 September 2011 |publisher=News.ninemsn.com.au |access-date=30 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007030552/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8351969 |archive-date=7 October 2012 }}{{cite news |url=http://www.theage.com.au/national/pokies-1-limit-favoured-20111014-1lpco.html |title=Pokies $1 limit 'favoured': The Age 15 October 2011 |work=The Age |location=Australia |date=15 October 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=16 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111116045818/http://www.theage.com.au/national/pokies-1-limit-favoured-20111014-1lpco.html |url-status=live }}

In September 2011, Xenophon controversially used parliamentary privilege to accuse a Catholic priest of rape, in regard to accusations around events that occurred in the 1960s. He also accused Monsignor David Cappo and Philip Wilson, the Catholic Archbishop of Adelaide, of failing to properly investigate the allegations in 2007. All three men denied the senator's claims. Xenophon chose such action after receiving an "unsatisfactory" response from the Church when advising them of his intentions and ultimatum. Cappo subsequently stepped down from several of his public positions.{{cite web |author=Mike Sexton |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-09-14/the-row-over-the-naming-of-an-alleged-rapist/2899618 |title=Xenophon speech puts parliamentary privilege in spotlight: ABC 7.30 report 15 September 2011 |publisher=ABC |location=Australia |date=29 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=16 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110916170752/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-09-14/the-row-over-the-naming-of-an-alleged-rapist/2899618 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/cappo-steps-down-amid-rape-furore-20110915-1kbki.html |title=Cappo steps down amid rape furore: SMH 15 September 2011 |work=Sydney Morning Herald |date=15 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=17 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120417213643/http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/cappo-steps-down-amid-rape-furore-20110915-1kbki.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author=5 Minutes 10 Minutes |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/cappo-refused-to-put-claim-to-rome/story-fn59niix-1226139354343 |title=Cappo 'refused' to put claim to Rome: The Australian 17 September 2011 |work=The Australian |access-date=30 November 2011 |date=17 September 2011 |archive-date=19 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110919151938/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/cappo-refused-to-put-claim-to-rome/story-fn59niix-1226139354343 |url-status=live }} Several days later, after high-level media coverage, Xenophon indicated he might not have used parliamentary privilege had he known the person he accused was about to take a period of leave.{{cite news |url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/xenophon-defends-naming-sa-priest-20110925-1krgm.html |title=Xenophon defends naming SA priest: SMH 25 September 2011 |work=Sydney Morning Herald |date=25 September 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=17 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120417213729/http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/xenophon-defends-naming-sa-priest-20110925-1krgm.html |url-status=live }}

In November 2011, Xenophon voted against the Clean Energy Bill. The carbon pricing scheme passed with the Labor government receiving Green support for the legislation in the Senate.{{cite news |last=Malcolm |first=By |url=http://www.news.com.au/business/government-sticking-to-23-carbon-price/story-e6frfm1i-1226188450227: |title=Senate passes carbon price law: News Ltd 8 November 2011 |publisher=News.com.au |date=8 November 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=1 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190301131450/https://www.news.com.au/business/government-sticking-to-23-carbon-price/story-e6frfm1i-1226188450227: |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.2gb.com/index2.php?option=com_newsmanager&task=view&id=9386 |title=Nick Xenophon on the carbon tax: 2GB Audio 11 July 2011 |publisher=2gb.com |date=11 July 2011 |access-date=30 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120403034016/http://www.2gb.com/index2.php?option=com_newsmanager&task=view&id=9386 |archive-date=3 April 2012 |df=dmy-all }}

In May 2012, Xenophon – a vocal supporter of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim – visited Malaysia to independently observe anti-government protests. The New Straits Times questioned Xenophon's impartiality in an article, which included part of his 2009 speech criticising Scientology.{{cite news| url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/senator-caught-in-muslim-slur-row/story-fn59niix-1226345261109 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503021442/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/senator-caught-in-muslim-slur-row/story-fn59niix-1226345261109 | url-status=dead | archive-date=3 May 2012 | work=The Australian | title=Senator caught in Muslim slur row | date=3 May 2012}} The newspaper replaced Scientology with the word Islam.{{cite web|url=http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/observer-under-scrutiny-1.79786|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502134808/http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/observer-under-scrutiny-1.79786|title=Observer under scrutiny|archive-date=2 May 2012|work=New Straits Times}} Xenophon threatened to sue for defamation, and the article was removed from the newspaper's website.Daniel Flitton: "[http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/political-news/xenophon-verballed-in-malaysia-20120502-1xzpd.html Xenophon verballed in Malaysia] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007162703/http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/political-news/xenophon-verballed-in-malaysia-20120502-1xzpd.html |date=7 October 2012 }}", in The Age, 3 May 2012

In February 2013, Xenophon attempted independently to revisit Malaysia but was detained by immigration authorities at Kuala Lumpur airport.[https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-21483133 Malaysia detains Australia senator Nick Xenophon] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190525073854/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-21483133 |date=25 May 2019 }}, BBC News, 16 February 2013 He was later sent back to Australia.[http://www.straitstimes.com/breaking-news/se-asia/story/kl-detains-australian-senator-critical-malaysia-ahead-polls-20130216 KL detains Australian senator critical of Malaysia ahead of polls] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216104831/http://www.straitstimes.com/breaking-news/se-asia/story/kl-detains-australian-senator-critical-malaysia-ahead-polls-20130216 |date=16 February 2013 }}, Straits Times, 16 Feb 013 1:41 pm, accessed 17 February 2013[http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-02-16/nick-xenophon-detained-in-malaysia/4522944 Xenophon detained at Malaysian airport] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216123243/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-02-16/nick-xenophon-detained-in-malaysia/4522944 |date=16 February 2013 }}, ABC News 24, 16/17 February 2013, accessed 17 February 2013 It was confirmed that Xenophon was not on an Australian Delegation list scheduled to meet the Malaysian parliamentary affairs minister.[https://web.archive.org/web/20130223015915/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2013%2F2%2F19%2Fnation%2F12729111&sec=nation Xenophon not on list of Aussie delegation], The Star, 18 Feb 013 11:43 am, accessed 19 February 2013

During the 2013 federal election, Xenophon nominated four key policy issues; gaming machine reforms, stopping palm oil from being sold in Australia, breaking up the supermarket duopoly, and better deals for Riverland irrigators in the Murray-Darling basin rescue plan. Xenophon's voting result increased to 24.9 percent, a few percent short of two quotas.{{cite web|url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/xenophon-slams-bizarre-preference-deals-20130908-2tdgb.html|title=Xenophon slams bizarre preference deals|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=8 September 2013|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-date=4 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704024029/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/xenophon-slams-bizarre-preference-deals-20130908-2tdgb.html|url-status=live}} A record number of candidates stood at the election.{{cite news |url=http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2013/08/record-number-of-candidates-to-contest-2013-election.html |title=Record Number of Candidates to Contest 2013 Election |author-link=Antony Green |author=Green, Antony |publisher=ABC News |date=16 August 2013 |access-date=13 November 2013 |archive-date=18 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130818125109/http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2013/08/record-number-of-candidates-to-contest-2013-election.html |url-status=live }} Group voting tickets came under scrutiny because multiple candidates were provisionally elected with the vast majority of their 14.3 percent quotas coming from the preferences of other parties across the political spectrum.{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-05/bitter-dispute-erupts-over-senate-preferences-in-queensland/4939300|title=Bitter dispute erupts over Senate preferences in Queensland|work=ABC News|date=5 September 2013|access-date=18 November 2013|archive-date=4 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504223606/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-05/bitter-dispute-erupts-over-senate-preferences-in-queensland/4939300|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2013/08/glen-dreuery-the-preference-whisperer.html|title=Glen Druery - the 'preference whisperer'|work=ABC Brisbane|date=21 August 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002051453/http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2013/08/glen-dreuery-the-preference-whisperer.html|archive-date=2 October 2013|df=dmy-all}}{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/13/preference-whisperer-defends-minor-party-success|title='Preference whisperer' defends role in minor parties' Senate success|author=Bridie Jabour|work=the Guardian|date=13 September 2013|access-date=12 December 2016|archive-date=5 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305005840/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/13/preference-whisperer-defends-minor-party-success|url-status=live}}

File:SenatorXenophonWitnessK.jpg in November 2015.]]

After returning to a balance of power position in the Senate, Xenophon focused on defence (particularly the Collins-class submarine replacement project){{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-02-21/xenophon-calls-for-clarity-on-submarine-build-plan/6171918|title=Submarine program: Nick Xenophon calls for clarity on number of new subs Australia will buy|work=ABC News|date=21 February 2015|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-date=29 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529135546/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-02-21/xenophon-calls-for-clarity-on-submarine-build-plan/6171918|url-status=live}} and cuts made by the Abbott government in the 2014 Australian federal budget.{{cite web|url=http://www.nickxenophon.com.au/blog/budget-is-mean-nasty-and-dumb/|title=Budget is mean, nasty and dumb - Nick Xenophon - Independent Senator for South Australia|work=nickxenophon.com.au|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150411194654/http://www.nickxenophon.com.au/blog/budget-is-mean-nasty-and-dumb/|archive-date=11 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

In October 2014, Xenophon supported the Abbott government's Direct Action plan for combatting Climate Change, enabling it to pass the Senate.{{cite web|url=http://www.thesaturdaypaper.com.au/news/politics/2014/10/18/nick-xenophons-ploy-price-carbon/14135508001142#.VVXp2GBa_dl|title=Nick Xenophon's ploy to price carbon|work=The Saturday Paper|date=18 October 2014|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-date=30 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630075320/http://www.thesaturdaypaper.com.au/news/politics/2014/10/18/nick-xenophons-ploy-price-carbon/14135508001142#.VVXp2GBa_dl|url-status=live}} However, he later stated that the plan had been "neutered" because of changes made to it via regulation.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/apr/10/direct-action-climate-scheme-has-been-neutered-says-nick-xenophon|title=Direct Action climate scheme has been 'neutered', says Nick Xenophon|author=Lenore Taylor|work=the Guardian|date=10 April 2015|access-date=12 December 2016|archive-date=5 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305073217/http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/apr/10/direct-action-climate-scheme-has-been-neutered-says-nick-xenophon|url-status=live}}

File:Coventry and Xenophon.png, in the Senate in 2015.]]

In December 2014, Xenophon voted against the tertiary education reforms proposed by Minister for Education and Training Christopher Pyne which would have seen a shift towards privatisation of universities in Australia.{{cite web|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/nick-xenophon-opposed-to-higher-ed-reforms/story-e6frgcjx-1227141941200|title=Xenophon opposed to higher ed reforms|date=2 December 2014|newspaper=The Australian}}

In March 2015, Xenophon opposed the amendments to the national security legislative framework, particularly on the issue of telecommunications data retention.{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-17/xenophon-journalists-metadata/6326858|title=Metadata laws: journalists will remain unprotected|work=ABC News|date=17 March 2015|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-date=13 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150513072459/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-17/xenophon-journalists-metadata/6326858|url-status=live}} In his 2014 "spycatcher" speech to the Senate, Xenophon stated that the new laws would have a chilling effect on investigative journalism in Australia.{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZI8vcCIGxI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/iZI8vcCIGxI |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|title=Spycatcher 1985 & National Security Bill 2014|date=25 September 2014|work=YouTube}}{{cbignore}} Xenophon negotiated with then Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Scott Morrison for the reintroduction of the Temporary Protection Visa.{{cite web|url=http://www.nickxenophon.com.au/blog/xenophon-i-wont-take-fake-moral-high-ground/|title=Xenophon: I won't take fake moral high ground - Nick Xenophon - Independent Senator for South Australia|work=nickxenophon.com.au|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150301010421/http://www.nickxenophon.com.au/blog/xenophon-i-wont-take-fake-moral-high-ground/|archive-date=1 March 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

In March 2015, Xenophon independently travelled to Indonesia with an Adelaide sheikh to unsuccessfully seek clemency for the Bali Nine duo who were on death row.{{cite web|url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/nick-xenophons-bahasa-indonesian-appeal-over-bali-nine-duo-20150318-1m27tr.html|title=Nick Xenophon's Bahasa Indonesian appeal over Bali nine duo|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=18 March 2015|access-date=15 May 2015|archive-date=24 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524200708/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/nick-xenophons-bahasa-indonesian-appeal-over-bali-nine-duo-20150318-1m27tr.html|url-status=live}}

In November 2015, Xenophon joined calls for a royal commission into the Australia-East Timor spying scandal.{{cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-27/xenophon-calls-for-royal-commission-east-timor-spying-scandal/6981084|title=Nick Xenophon calls for royal commission into East Timor spying scandal|newspaper=ABC News|date=27 November 2015|access-date=7 July 2016|archive-date=19 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160619020918/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-27/xenophon-calls-for-royal-commission-east-timor-spying-scandal/6981084|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-06/22/c_134345841.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021212206/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-06/22/c_134345841.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 October 2015|title=Former Australian spy Witness K facing criminal prosecution in Australia - Xinhua - English.news.cn|access-date=7 July 2016}}

In February 2016, Xenophon joined with the Australian Greens and the Government to support a reform of the Senate election system.{{cite web|url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/senate-reform-could-boost-nick-xenophon-kill-off-minor-parties/news-story/0d9d44c77f301498ef250eb767d2b4b0|title=Mr X's vote victory will kill off minor parties|newspaper=The Advertiser|access-date=24 February 2016|archive-date=24 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160224105714/http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/senate-reform-could-boost-nick-xenophon-kill-off-minor-parties/news-story/0d9d44c77f301498ef250eb767d2b4b0|url-status=live}} Other crossbench senators, including John Madigan and David Leyonhjelm, whose re-election prospects would be bleak under the new voting arrangements, accused Xenophon of "political trickery of the highest order".{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2016/feb/22/crossbench-senators-seething-at-being-dumped-in-deal-to-curb-micro-parties|title=Crossbench senators seething at being 'dumped' in deal to curb micro-parties|first1=Lenore|last1=Taylor|first2=Daniel|last2=Hurst|website=TheGuardian.com|date=22 February 2016|access-date=7 July 2016|archive-date=19 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160719033634/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2016/feb/22/crossbench-senators-seething-at-being-dumped-in-deal-to-curb-micro-parties|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.afr.com/news/politics/nick-xenophon-steps-up-push-for-senate-changes-20160126-gmeots#ixzz419d7CPm9|title=Nick Xenophon steps up push for Senate changes|date=28 January 2016|access-date=7 July 2016|archive-date=8 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308114145/http://www.afr.com/news/politics/nick-xenophon-steps-up-push-for-senate-changes-20160126-gmeots#ixzz419d7CPm9|url-status=live}}

During the 2016 federal election campaign, Xenophon was the subject of attacks from both major political parties,{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-06-30/turnbulls-final-election-pitch-at-press-club/7557568|title=Lambie, Xenophon, Lazarus, Hanson are threat to stability, PM declares|website=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=30 June 2016|access-date=28 August 2016|archive-date=5 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905133730/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-06-30/turnbulls-final-election-pitch-at-press-club/7557568|url-status=live}} including his failure to declare a directorship of Adelaide Tower Pty Ltd, which involved his father. Xenophon accused proponents of a "partisan and personal campaign".{{cite web |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/federal-election-2016/federal-election-2016-nick-xenophons-claim-over-tenant-limit/news-story/e822fc544fbbd02f880fcfe10c15beae |title=Federal election 2016: Nick Xenophon's claim over tenant limit |newspaper=The Australian |first1=Michael |last1=Owen |first2=Meredith |last2=Booth |date=17 June 2016 |access-date=6 June 2017}} Labor requested the Australian Electoral Commission investigate questionable loans given to Xenophon by businessman Ian Melrose.{{cite web|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/federal-election-2016/federal-election-2016-xenophon-his-donor-and-the-timor-tieup/news-story/d97f63cae433fc1fb3b92f00e348ce00|title=Federal election 2016: Xenophon, his donor and the Timor tie-up|newspaper=The Australian}}

In August 2016, Xenophon and NXT colleagues opposed the proposed same-sex marriage plebiscite on the basis that it was not binding and a waste of public resources.{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-23/same-sex-marriage-plebiscite-labor-ramps-up-opposition/7776060|title=Labor ramps up opposition to 'pointless' same-sex marriage plebiscite|date=22 August 2016|publisher=ABC News|access-date=28 August 2016|archive-date=29 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829073142/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-23/same-sex-marriage-plebiscite-labor-ramps-up-opposition/7776060|url-status=live}}

In March 2017, Xenophon announced that he would launch a new party in time for the 2018 South Australian state election.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-03-05/nick-xenophon-launches-party-sa-best-for-state-election/8325814 |title=Nick Xenophon launches SA Best party for 2018 South Australian election |first=Rebecca |last=Opie |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=5 March 2017 |access-date=5 March 2017 |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112012303/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-03-05/nick-xenophon-launches-party-sa-best-for-state-election/8325814 |url-status=live }} In July 2017, Nick Xenophon's SA-BEST was registered by the Electoral Commission of South Australia.{{cite web |url=http://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/parties-and-candidates/how-to-register-a-political-party/political-party-register |title=Register of political parties |publisher=Electoral Commission of South Australia |access-date=6 July 2017 |archive-date=9 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109190659/https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/parties-and-candidates/how-to-register-a-political-party/political-party-register |url-status=live }}

In August 2017, Xenophon became embroiled in the 2017 Australian parliamentary eligibility crisis{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/aug/19/nick-xenophon-will-go-to-high-court-after-finding-out-he-holds-dual-citizenship|last=Davey|first=Melissa|title=Nick Xenophon will go to high court after finding out he's a British overseas citizen|work=The Guardian|date=19 August 2017|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=20 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170820002704/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/aug/19/nick-xenophon-will-go-to-high-court-after-finding-out-he-holds-dual-citizenship|url-status=live}} and asked to be referred to the High Court for clarification of his 2016 eligibility.{{cite news|last=Lewis|first=Rosie|title=Now Xenophon enters the dual citizenship mix|work=The Australian|date=15 August 2017}} (paywalled).{{cite news|url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/nick-xenophon-checking-whether-hes-a-british-citizen-in-shock-new-twist-in-citizenship-crisis-20170818-gxyzo2.html|last=Remeikis|first=Amy|title=Nick Xenophon checking whether he's a British citizen in shock new twist in citizenship crisis|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=18 August 2017|access-date=18 August 2017|archive-date=18 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170818044805/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/nick-xenophon-checking-whether-hes-a-british-citizen-in-shock-new-twist-in-citizenship-crisis-20170818-gxyzo2.html|url-status=live}} On 27 October 2017, the High Court found he had been eligible in 2016 to nominate and be validly elected.{{rp|para 135}}

In September 2017, the Turnbull government with the support of Nick Xenophon (by a vote of 31–27), was able to pass changes to media legislation including the repealing of the "two-out-of-three" rule (which allowed a company to own a TV station, newspaper and radio station in a single market) and the "reach rule" (which prevented a single TV broadcaster from reaching more than seventy-five per cent of the population).{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-13/media-reforms-set-to-pass-senate/8943266|title=Media deal set to change who controls what you read, hear and see|website=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=13 September 2017|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=30 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630000945/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-13/media-reforms-set-to-pass-senate/8943266?|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-15/gordon-and-murdoch-launch-new-bid-for-ten-network/8950046|title=Gordon and Murdoch launch new bid for Ten Network|website=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=15 September 2017|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712235344/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-15/gordon-and-murdoch-launch-new-bid-for-ten-network/8950046|url-status=live}}

On 6 October 2017, Xenophon announced that he would resign in order to stand for the Parliament of South Australia at the 2018 South Australian general election.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/oct/06/nick-xenophon-resigns-from-senate-to-run-for-state-parliament|title=Xenophon resigns from Senate to run for state parliament|work=The Guardian|date=6 October 2017|access-date=6 October 2017|archive-date=6 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171006030341/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/oct/06/nick-xenophon-resigns-from-senate-to-run-for-state-parliament|url-status=live}} On 31 October 2017, Xenophon resigned from the Senate, and was replaced by his party's senior advisor Rex Patrick.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-31/nick-xenophon-announces-senate-replacement-new-name-for-nxt/9102364 |title=Nick Xenophon readies NXT for his Canberra departure, announcing Senate replacement and new name |first=Matthew |last=Doran |work=ABC News |access-date=31 October 2017 |date=31 October 2017 |archive-date=29 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180729091122/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-31/nick-xenophon-announces-senate-replacement-new-name-for-nxt/9102364 |url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Barnaby Joyce disqualified by High Court|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-27/citizenship-decision-handed-down-by-high-court/9061302|access-date=27 October 2017|work=ABC News|date=27 October 2017|language=en-AU|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111162315/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-27/citizenship-decision-handed-down-by-high-court/9061302|url-status=live}}Constitution s 15.

{{See also|2017 Australian parliamentary eligibility crisis}}

On 19 August 2017, Xenophon announced that British authorities had confirmed that he was a British Overseas Citizen because his ethnic Greek father was born in Cyprus when it was a British colony. Xenophon's subsequent application to renounce that citizenship became effective on 30 August.{{rp|para 123}} Separately, Xenophon later said that he had already renounced Greek citizenship acquired through his mother. Xenophon asked the Australian government to have him referred to the High Court in the Court of Disputed Returns for consideration and clarification of his 2016 eligibility. On 27 October 2017, the High Court found that Xenophon had been eligible in 2016 to nominate and be validly elected.{{rp|para 135}}

{{See also|South Australian state election, 2018}}

On 17 March 2018, Xenophon unsuccessfully contested the seat of Hartley in the South Australian House of Assembly at the 2018 South Australian state election. Although he came second on the primary vote ahead of Labor's Grace Portolesi by 202 votes, upon the preference distribution of the eliminated fourth-placed Greens candidate, Xenophon's 99 vote lead over Labor became a 357-vote deficit. Third-placed Xenophon was therefore eliminated, with Hartley reverting to the traditional Liberal vs Labor contest.{{cite web|url=https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/component/edocman/hartley-final-distribution-of-preferences/download|title=2018 Hartley final distribution of preferences: ECSA|access-date=28 June 2018}}{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/sa-election-2018/guide/hart/2018|title=Hartley election results: ABC|website=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|access-date=28 June 2018}} {{Dead link|date=April 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

Xenophon announced on 24 March 2022 that he would once again run for the Australian Senate at the 2022 Australian federal election.{{Cite news |date=2022-03-24 |title='Political hermit' Xenophon announces Canberra comeback, says Huawei a 'red herring' |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-24/nick-xenophon-announces-campaign-to-return-to-the-senate/100936422 |access-date=2022-03-27 |archive-date=27 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220327092612/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-24/nick-xenophon-announces-campaign-to-return-to-the-senate/100936422 |url-status=live }}

At the 2022 Australian Senate election, Xenophon attempted to make a comeback into federal politics, by running in South Australia as an independent lead candidate of the Group O ticket with Centre Alliance Senator Stirling Griff, in which both of them failed to get elected after gaining only 2.99% down from 21.76% at the 2016 Election when both were elected.{{Cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2022/results/senate|title=Senate Results|website=abc.net.au}}

On 2 December 2019, Huawei Australia announced that it had engaged Xenophon's services as an "external lawyer".{{Cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/false-and-totally-unsubstantiated-xenophon-goes-after-huawei-s-critics-20191202-p53g1r.html|title='False and totally unsubstantiated': Xenophon goes after Huawei's critics|last=Bonyhady|first=Nick|date=2019-12-02|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|access-date=2019-12-23|archive-date=23 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191223041156/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/false-and-totally-unsubstantiated-xenophon-goes-after-huawei-s-critics-20191202-p53g1r.html|url-status=live}} The company was banned by the Australian government from providing 5G infrastructure. Xenophon said he would not be lobbying members of parliament on behalf of Huawei.{{Cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/sad-end-to-his-career-liberal-senator-blasts-nick-xenophon-s-huawei-evasion-20191203-p53gks.html|title='Sad end to his career': Liberal Senator blasts Nick Xenophon's Huawei evasion|last=Bourke|first=Latika|date=2019-12-03|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|access-date=2019-12-23|archive-date=23 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191223041155/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/sad-end-to-his-career-liberal-senator-blasts-nick-xenophon-s-huawei-evasion-20191203-p53gks.html|url-status=live}}

Xenophon continues to advocate for poker machine gambling reforms.{{Cite web |last=Kruger |first=Harriet Alexander, Colin |date=2023-02-24 |title='Sorry Nick. We will kill you all off': Aristocrat challenged over Xenophon text |url=https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/sorry-nick-we-will-kill-you-all-off-aristocrat-challenged-over-xenophon-text-20230224-p5cncr.html |access-date=2023-05-30 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |archive-date=30 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530034715/https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/sorry-nick-we-will-kill-you-all-off-aristocrat-challenged-over-xenophon-text-20230224-p5cncr.html |url-status=live }}

In 1990, Xenophon married physiotherapist Sandra Kazubiernis. When their only child was born in 1992, Xenophon changed his own surname by deed poll from Xenophou to Xenophon, his paternal grandfather's surname. Kazubiernis and Xenophon separated in 1995 and later divorced.{{cite news |url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/archive/news/from-young-lib-to-senate-linchpin/news-story/f7dfc0a5aecb0f8afe697554c97fa92d |title=From brash Young Liberal to Senate linchpin for Nick Xenophon |first=Jamie |last=Walker |date=28 June 2008 |newspaper=The Australian |access-date=19 March 2018 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027154929/https://www.theaustralian.com.au/archive/news/from-young-lib-to-senate-linchpin/news-story/f7dfc0a5aecb0f8afe697554c97fa92d |url-status=live }}

Xenophon had his second child in early 2019 with another partner.{{Cite web|url=https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/entertainment/confidential/former-senator-nick-xenophon-is-a-father-again-at-the-age-of-60/news-story/f6561af8de786e81cb514091ff10527a|title=Nick Xenophon becomes a father again|date=2019-02-26|website=www.adelaidenow.com.au|language=en|access-date=2019-06-18|archive-date=28 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228192806/https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/entertainment/confidential/former-senator-nick-xenophon-is-a-father-again-at-the-age-of-60/news-story/f6561af8de786e81cb514091ff10527a|url-status=live}} The relationship was reported to have ended before 2022.{{Cite web | url=https://www.news.com.au/national/politics/nick-xenophons-ex-reveals-desperate-texts-before-leaving-her-for-another-woman/news-story/87f3995804e08e636ddb3321cf45b0fc | title=Nick Xenophon's ex reveals desperate texts before leaving her for another woman | website=www.news.com.au | first=Samantha | last=Maiden}}

Xenophon opened a Greek-Cypriot restaurant called Thanks to Theo in Adelaide in 2023 to honour his father who died in the same year.{{Cite web|url=https://greekherald.com.au/food/thanks-to-theo-greek-restaurant-to-open-in-adelaides-cbd/|title='Thanks To Theo' Greek restaurant to open in Adelaide's CBD|first=The Greek|last=Herald|date=1 December 2023}} In 2024 Xenophon announced he was undergoing surgery for a non-cancerous brain tumour.{{Cite web | url=https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/exsenator-nick-xenophon-makes-big-revelation-about-ticking-time-bomb/news-story/b941180f0ba490f7fc7de4cb834716a2 | title=Ex-Senator Nick Xenophon makes big revelation about "ticking time bomb" | website=www.news.com.au }}

In 2017, former staffer Jenny Low claimed, in response to an article appearing in The Australian, that she had been in a seven-year secret relationship with Xenophon that was psychologically abusive, "destructive" and detrimental to her career.{{cite news |url=http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/sa-election-2018-former-nick-xenophon-team-senator-john-darley-launches-the-advance-sa-party/news-story/4ed92b14a521ff23c081fc6457e32f1b |title=SA Election 2018: Advance SA candidate Jenny Low claims former partner Nick Xenophon was 'manipulative and controlling' |first1=Paul |last1=Purcell |first2=Adam |last2=Langenberg |date=3 November 2017 |newspaper=The Advertiser |access-date=9 November 2017 |archive-date=9 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109070318/http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/sa-election-2018-former-nick-xenophon-team-senator-john-darley-launches-the-advance-sa-party/news-story/4ed92b14a521ff23c081fc6457e32f1b |url-status=live }} Xenophon admitted that a relationship had commenced in 2007,{{cite news |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/state-politics/xenophons-former-girlfriend-a-likely-candidate-for-rival-party/news-story/21ac0042977a5a3b35e4040b96c94f2b |title=Xenophon's former girlfriend a likely candidate for rival party |date=3 November 2017 |first=Michael |last=Owen |newspaper=The Australian |publisher=News Limited |access-date=9 November 2017}} but rejected any negative assertions. Before the 2022 Federal election Xenophon was accused by another former partner of being emotionally abusive. Xenophon expressed regret but declined to comment on details.

• Kitchen Cabinet (2013) - Himself{{Citation|last=Maroupas|first=Stamatia|title=Nick Xenophon|date=2013-07-16|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3060682/|others=Annabel Crabb, Nick Xenophon|access-date=2017-11-21|archive-date=12 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170212142550/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3060682/|url-status=live}}
• The House with Annabel Crabb (2017) - Himself{{Cite news|url=https://www.crikey.com.au/2017/10/06/the-many-publicity-stunts-of-nick-xenophon/|title=The many times Nick Xenophon wasn't afraid of a publicity stunt|date=2017-10-06|work=Crikey|access-date=2017-11-21|language=en-US|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201043404/https://www.crikey.com.au/2017/10/06/the-many-publicity-stunts-of-nick-xenophon/|url-status=live}}
• The Ex-PM (2017) - Prime Minister{{Citation |title="The Ex-PM" Justice (TV Episode 2017) |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6359622/fullcredits |access-date=2022-08-15 |archive-date=31 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220531112119/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6359622/fullcredits |url-status=live }}

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{wikisource|Author:Nicholas Xenophon}}

{{wikiquote}}

{{commons category}}

• [http://www.nickxenophon.com.au/ NickXenophon.com.au official website]
• [http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=8IV Parliamentary biography]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20120402222045/http://hansard.parliament.sa.gov.au/wp/LC041297.PDF Maiden speech], South Australian Legislative Council, (4 December 1997)
• [http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F2008-08-27%2F0161%22 Maiden speech], Australian Senate, (27 August 2008)
• [https://theyvoteforyou.org.au/people/senate/sa/nick_xenophon Summary of parliamentary voting: TheyVoteForYou.org.au]

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Xenophon, Nick}}

Category:1959 births

Category:Australian people of Greek Cypriot descent

Category:Critics of Scientology

Category:Independent members of the Parliament of Australia

Category:Living people

Category:Members of the Australian Senate

Category:Members of the Australian Senate for South Australia

Category:Members of the South Australian Legislative Council

Category:People educated at Prince Alfred College

Category:Politicians from Adelaide

Category:Eastern Orthodox Christians from Australia

Category:Adelaide Law School alumni

Category:Nick Xenophon Team members of the Parliament of Australia

Category:21st-century Australian politicians

Category:Leaders of political parties in Australia

Category:Anti-gambling advocates

Category:Australian political party founders