Robert Barwick, a Senate candidate for Victoria representing the Australian Citizens Party, has recently gained unexpected fame on social media due to his review of the Chinese animated film Nezha 2. His unique insights into the film, coupled with his criticism of Australia’s foreign policy, have sparked widespread discussion.

In his first video, Barwick praised China’s remarkable progress over the past few decades, highlighting achievements such as lifting 800 million people out of poverty, developing an extensive high-speed rail network, advancing 5G technology, and leading in clean energy. He interpreted Nezha 2 as a fusion of Chinese culture and modern geopolitical themes, arguing that the film’s antagonist symbolizes forces that claim to promote "love and peace" but, in reality, bring suffering and destruction to the world. He urged Australians to wake up, re-evaluate their country's alignment with such forces, and advocate for national sovereignty in decision-making.

The video quickly went viral across various social media platforms, catapulting Barwick into the spotlight. In response to the growing attention, he released a second video congratulating Nezha 2 on becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time and predicting that future works would surpass this record. He emphasized that healthy competition in fields like art, science, and technology benefits humanity, while maintaining dominance through coercion, bullying, or military force is never sustainable. He reiterated the Citizens Party’s long-standing stance that aligning with global bullies does not serve Australia’s interests and that the country’s long-term prosperity depends on cooperation and fair competition with all nations.

Barwick’s views have sparked heated debate on Chinese social media platforms, particularly on WeChat short videos, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. He further fueled discussions with videos critiquing what he called Australia’s "hypocritical double standards" regarding Chinese naval presence in international waters and another titled "Wake Up, Australia." These videos have made him an unexpected political figure within the Chinese-Australian community, where he was previously little known.

His sudden rise to prominence reflects both his sharp critique of Australia’s foreign policy and his emphasis on multicultural engagement. Barwick advocates for Australia’s independence in global affairs, opposing blind adherence to external influences. He calls for equal and mutually beneficial relationships with all nations, including China. His views have resonated with many in the Chinese community, who see him as a rare political figure willing to challenge mainstream narratives.

As the 2025 Australian federal election approaches, Barwick, as the Citizens Party’s Senate candidate for Victoria, is committed to promoting an independent foreign policy and strengthening cooperation with Asian nations, particularly China. He argues that Australia should actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative, seize economic opportunities in Asia, and seek new drivers for national economic growth. He also believes that Australia should take on a constructive role in global affairs, working toward international peace and stability.

Barwick’s policy platform extends beyond foreign affairs. He advocates for infrastructure development, improvements in education and healthcare, support for technological innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development. He believes the government should increase investment in public services to ensure equal opportunities and benefits for all citizens.

As a politician, Barwick prioritizes direct engagement with communities, listening to public concerns, and incorporating them into policy decisions. He argues that only by deeply understanding the needs of ordinary people can the government craft effective policies that truly serve the population.

His rise has also sparked discussions about the role of social media in modern politics. His success highlights how social media has become a crucial platform for politicians to communicate with the public, rapidly disseminate information, and shape public opinion. However, it also serves as a reminder that political figures must use social media responsibly, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of their messages to avoid misleading the public.

Ultimately, Robert Barwick’s emergence reflects shifts in Australia’s political landscape and the growing public demand for an independent foreign policy and greater multicultural engagement. Whether he can translate his rising popularity into electoral success in the upcoming federal election remains to be seen.