Anthony Albanese says improving voters' lives is the best way to fight rightwing populism, as he reaffirms his commitment to universal childcare in an interview marking the first anniversary of his landslide reelection.
Commitment to Universal Childcare
Despite budget pressures from the Iran conflict and spending cuts affecting the NDIS and public service, the prime minister told Guardian Australia he remains determined to establish a universal childcare system. He flagged it as part of his legacy, potentially featuring in Labor's 2028 election platform.
“I think universal, affordable childcare is an important objective to work towards,” Albanese said. Labor has commissioned Deloitte for a two-year study on demand and costs, due by early 2027.
Restoring Trust Through Delivery
Albanese emphasized that delivering on commitments restores trust in government. “My government is focused on delivering what matters to Australians every day, and front and centre of that is cost-of-living measures. I think governments need to not stray from the central focus of making a positive difference to people’s lives.”
He cited industrial relations reforms, wage increases for aged care and childcare workers, income tax changes, cheaper medicines, free TAFE courses, household batteries, university debt cuts, urgent care clinics, and housing initiatives as key achievements.
Rightwing Populism Threat
With One Nation poised to win the Farrer byelection, Albanese argued that meaningful improvements to voters' lives are the best defense against rising populism. “The fact that we’ve delivered on our commitments is about restoring trust in government, and the belief that the government will listen to people.”
Budget and Gas Tax
Ahead of the budget, Albanese brushed off union backlash over refusing to increase taxes on gas exporters, calling such proposals populist. “My job is to act in Australia’s national interest, which in May 2026 is ensuring fuel supply due to global pressures.”
The budget is expected to be the most consequential since 2022, with reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts anticipated.
Resilience and National Interest
Albanese stressed resilience, including boosting domestic manufacturing to reduce vulnerability to international shocks. “Resilience also means giving people a stake in the economy, so they feel the economy works for them, rather than them just working for the economy.”
Security and Gun Buy-Back
After the Bondi royal commission interim report, Albanese called on states to support a national gun buy-back. On the return of Australian women and children from Syria, he said, “I have never had any sympathy for those who chose to fight against Australia’s interests. I remain sympathetic towards children who are victims of their parents’ actions.” He declined to comment on separating children from parents, stating that Australian citizens have rights and must face the law.
