Albanese in the Hot Seat: Rising Disapproval and an Election Year Reckoning

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ended 2024 with declining popularity, as more Australians express concerns about the nation’s direction. 

The final Guardian Essential poll of the year reveals growing dissatisfaction but also some hope for a political reset in the new year.

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The Poll Results

‍The survey of 1,151 voters found Albanese’s net approval rating has dropped to -11. 

Disapproval of his performance has risen to 50% (up three points since November), while approval has fallen to 39% (down three points).

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Regional Disparities

Albanese’s ratings are uneven across the country. While his net approval is slightly better in his home state of New South Wales (-3), it worsens in key battlegrounds like Queensland (-21) and Western Australia (-17). 

Both states will be critical in the next election, particularly Queensland, where Labor secured just five seats in 2022.

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Australians Feeling Worse Off

The poll underscores a challenging year for the federal government, with many Australians reporting that 2024 was worse than they expected and leaving them feeling worse off than three years ago. 

These sentiments highlight the hurdles Labor faces heading into an election year.

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Looking Ahead

‍Despite the gloomy outlook, the poll shows that some Australians remain optimistic about the future, leaving room for a political turnaround. 

As the new year begins, all eyes will be on Labor’s ability to address voter concerns and chart a path forward.

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