Labor Party Struggles Amid Economic Discontent and Declining Voter Approval Ratings
Recent national polling shows Labor facing record lows as cost-of-living pressures erode voter trust.
1Widespread Polling Decline
Recent federal polling data from Resolve, Redbridge, and YouGov indicates a significant downturn for the Labor Party. Primary vote shares remain stagnant or declining across these surveys, while the Coalition shows signs of momentum. These results reflect a broader trend of voter dissatisfaction with the current government's handling of national affairs.
2Economic Sentiment Impact
Economic perceptions are identified as a primary driver of Labor's declining support. In the Resolve poll, 42% of respondents blamed the federal government for rising living costs, compared to only 26% citing global factors. This sentiment appears to be directly undermining Anthony Albanese’s standing with the electorate across multiple metrics.
3Albanese Approval Ratings
Anthony Albanese’s net approval ratings have reached concerning levels, with Resolve reporting a net score of -22 and YouGov recording -29. Only one in five voters now expresses trust in the Prime Minister. These figures highlight a persistent challenge for the Labor leadership as they navigate a difficult economic environment.
4Coalition and Opposition Gains
The Coalition is experiencing a notable resurgence, with Redbridge reporting its highest support levels since December 2025. In a YouGov poll, Angus Taylor surpassed Albanese as the preferred Prime Minister for the first time, leading 41% to 39%. This shift suggests that voters are increasingly considering the opposition as an alternative.
5Victorian Election Outlook
With the November 28 Victorian election approaching, polling suggests the Coalition is gaining significant ground over Labor. A Lighthouse poll placed the Coalition at 31% of the primary vote, while Labor trailed at 22%. Liberal leader Jess Wilson currently holds a +9 net favourability rating, contrasting sharply with Labor’s Ben Carroll.
6Policy Area Performance
Redbridge data reveals that the right-wing bloc leads Labor and the Greens on critical issues, including immigration, national security, and the economy. The left maintains a lead only on climate change, polling at 43% against 23%. This thematic disadvantage complicates Labor's efforts to regain momentum before the next electoral cycle.
7Internal Party Metrics
Within the Labor ranks, likeability scores are largely negative. Figures such as Penny Wong at -4, Chris Bowen at -9, and Jim Chalmers at -11 reflect the party's internal struggle. Conversely, some opposition figures, such as Nationals leader Matt Canavan, maintain positive net likeability scores, further highlighting the current political imbalance.
8Broader Political Context
The current political climate is marked by high volatility, as seen in international results like the New Zealand election and US midterms. As Labor faces these domestic pressures, the government must address the persistent blame regarding living costs. Future polling will determine if these trends represent a temporary setback or structural change.