Support For Government/PM Down Since Referendum

The latest Newspoll reported in The Australian is showing that support for the incumbent Labor government and PM Albanese is down following the October referendum, which did not go the government’s way. Continued elevated cost-of-living pressures may be weighing on support, as the latest Westpac consumer confidence report shows that inflation remains households’ main concern.

• The poll shows that on current sentiments the government would win another term but the downward trend needs watching if it continues. The next election is due in H1 2025.
• The Liberal/National coalition would receive 37% of the primary vote up 2pp and Labour 35% down 1pp, which are both higher than the May 2022 election results, according to the Newspoll survey taken between October 30 and November 3. Two-party preferred remains in the government’s favour at 52:48 but has narrowed from 54:46 in the October 13 poll.
• In terms of whom respondents see as the better PM, Albanese remains ahead but has fallen 5pp to 46%. Liberal leader Dutton rose 5pp to 36%. Albanese’s approval rating also fell to -10, the lowest since he was opposition leader. Dissatisfaction with the PM is now higher than Dutton’s as it rose 6pp to 52% compared with Dutton’s 50%. His net approval is now just below the PM’s on -13.
• Support for the Greens is unchanged on 12%, One Nation on 6% and minor parties and independents -1pp to 10% (4pp lower than the May 2022 election).
  - The Australian