Australia’s Labor Party has seen a five-point decline in its national primary vote, dropping to 26% in the latest polling, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese records his lowest approval rating since taking office. The results come amid ongoing political debate over immigration policy and broader concerns about economic and social issues.
The Guardian Essential poll, conducted among more than 1,000 Australians with a margin of error of approximately 3%, also indicated a downturn in support for Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party, which fell from a high of 28% in May to 23%. This decline occurred despite One Nation’s recent victory in the Secret Harbour by-election in Western Australia.
Labor and the Coalition were tied in the new poll, each receiving 26% of the primary vote. While Labor’s support dropped from 31% in July, the Coalition experienced growth from 22% over the same period. Opposition leader Angus Taylor’s approval rating was divided, with 33% in favor and 35% expressing disapproval.
Albanese’s overall approval rating now stands at 35%, with 56% disapproving of his performance. Essential Media’s executive director, Peter Lewis, attributed Labor’s faltering support in part to its handling of net overseas migration (Nom). Last week, Albanese overruled proposed cuts to Australia’s annual refugee intake, and anticipated policy changes from Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke have been postponed.
The immigration debate has created tension among voters, with Lewis noting a shift away from the government toward both One Nation and the Coalition amid what he described as “a messy immigration debate.” The poll also revealed that 59% of Australians believe the country is heading in the wrong direction—a sentiment at its highest since the survey began tracking in 2022. Key concerns include the cost of living, global uncertainty, and the impact of artificial intelligence on employment.
In addition to migration issues, the poll revealed strong public support for greater regulation of online content, particularly in relation to social media and artificial intelligence. Over 70% of respondents expressed a desire for more control over the content they encounter on social media platforms. Labor is reportedly considering stricter policies on explicit and violent content, with 55% of those surveyed believing violence against women has increased in recent years. Furthermore, two-thirds of respondents linked online content to rising violence against women, and 65% said it is nearly impossible for teenage boys in Australia to avoid harmful material on the internet.
Chanel Contos, founder of the Teach Us Consent advocacy group, is expected to call for legislation mandating opt-in algorithm settings for social media during a speech at the National Press Club. She argues that such measures would make online experiences safer for young users by introducing affirmative consent principles to digital platforms.
The poll also highlighted trends in union membership and public attitudes toward labor organizations. Only 9% of those surveyed identified as union members, fewer than those involved in local sports clubs (15%), voluntary groups (11%), churches (10%), or professional sports fan clubs (10%). Despite this, 56% of respondents consider unions important for workers today, and nearly 40% believe workers would benefit from stronger unions. Melissa Donnelly, the former national secretary of the Community and Public Sector Union, took over as secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) this week, succeeding Sally McManus.
The poll’s findings underscore the complex and shifting political landscape facing Australia’s major parties as they navigate public concerns over migration, economic pressures, social issues, and emerging technologies.