Andrew Charlton, a rising figure within the Australian Labor Party (ALP), has urged the party to embrace the digital economy with the same determination that former prime ministers Bob Hawke and Paul Keating applied to navigating globalisation in the 1980s and 1990s. Speaking ahead of receiving the 2026 Emerging Leader of the Year award from the McKinnon Institute, Charlton emphasized that the current government faces a similarly transformative challenge in adapting Australia to rapid technological change.

Charlton, a former Rhodes Scholar and ex-chief financial officer for major companies including Coles and Wesfarmers, pointed to the need for the Albanese government to chart a clear course through the emerging digital landscape. “We need to position Australia in that digital economy,” he said, highlighting the pivotal role Labor must play in securing the country’s future prosperity in a period defined by technological innovation.

At the same time, Charlton cautioned against advancing digital policies without first securing public trust. He noted the disconnect between the swift pace of technological development, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the slower process by which public confidence is earned. “Technology often moves very quickly, and for good reason, public trust moves much more slowly,” Charlton observed. He stressed the importance of acknowledging potential risks upfront and fostering trust before seeking broader public acceptance for policy initiatives.

Charlton’s remarks come amid ongoing debates within Labor over the government’s AI strategy and tax reforms targeting technology companies and start-ups. While supportive of innovation, Charlton has also expressed concerns over the impact of the government’s surprise tax changes on emerging businesses, saying the policies do not always align well with the realities facing start-ups.

On the political front, Charlton warned about the disruptive influence of social media, especially as a vehicle for misinformation. He singled out the rise of One Nation, which predominantly communicates via social media platforms, as a particular challenge. Nonetheless, he remains confident that, when voters cast their ballots, Labor’s record of experience and unity will prevail over populist alternatives.

Addressing perceptions of limited internal debate under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s leadership, which has been described by some as highly disciplined and tightly controlled, Charlton disagreed with assertions that dissent is suppressed within the party. “There’s pretty good debate in the Labor Party. There’s a diverse group of people with a diverse group of views,” he said, inviting critics to observe discussions at his local Parramatta ALP branch.

Charlton also reflected on his personal background, crediting his working-class roots and his father’s example of hard work and responsibility for shaping his values. Although often portrayed as a self-made success, Charlton considers himself a product of collective investment and support, underscoring the broader societal contributions that enabled his rise.

With his blend of economic expertise and political acumen, Andrew Charlton represents a new generation of Labor leaders tasked with steering Australia through the complex challenges posed by digital transformation.