Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said improving the lives of ordinary Australians is the best way to combat rising rightwing populism and Pauline Hanson, as he reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a universal childcare system. In an interview marking the first anniversary of his landslide reelection, Albanese told Guardian Australia that meaningful reforms, such as universal childcare, are central to restoring trust in government.
The prime minister has flagged universal childcare as part of his political legacy, with a potential policy promise for the 2028 election. Labor has commissioned Deloitte to design the system, with a two-year study due by early 2027. Albanese noted that changes to the childcare subsidy and guaranteed three-day care are steps toward full universality, despite budget pressures from the war in Iran and other challenges.
Albanese defended his refusal to impose a windfall tax on gas exporters, calling such proposals populist posturing. He argued that ensuring fuel supply is in Australia's national interest amid global energy shocks. The budget, due soon, is expected to include reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax, as well as measures to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce vulnerability to international events.
The prime minister highlighted achievements including industrial relations reforms, wage increases for aged care and childcare workers, income tax cuts, cheaper medicines, free TAFE courses, and efforts to address housing shortages. He also called on states to support a national gun buy-back after the Bondi royal commission report, and insisted the government is not facilitating the return of Australian fighters from overseas conflicts.
