According to the latest Guardian Essential poll, support for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor government has improved on key issues, with a notable increase in trust regarding housing and tax policies. The poll, conducted after the recent budget, shows that 37% of Australians approve of Albanese's performance, up three points from the previous month, while disapproval has decreased.
The survey indicates that Labor's primary vote has risen to 29%, with One Nation at 28% and the Coalition at 23%. This marks a gain for Labor, which had previously been trailing. The government's focus on intergenerational fairness and housing affordability appears to be resonating with voters, as 28% believe the new property tax changes will make the housing market fairer, up from previous figures.
Key budget measures, including changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax, now have backing from 33% of Australians, a significant increase from earlier polls. The $250 working Australians tax offset remains popular, with 47% in favour. Opposition leader Angus Taylor's hardline immigration policies, however, continue to enjoy majority support, with 58% backing caps on immigration tied to house building.
Despite the positive trends, challenges remain. Only 25% of Australians approve of the budget overall, and 56% believe the government has fallen short of expectations since the May 2025 election. Nevertheless, the data suggests that Labor's messaging on economic fairness is gradually gaining traction, narrowing the gap with One Nation and strengthening Albanese's position ahead of the next election cycle.
