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Albanese approval hits record low as One Nation support fades

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 8 hours ago · 3:55 read · September 2, 2026

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has recorded his lowest approval rating since taking office, according to the latest Guardian Essential poll, as Labor’s primary vote slips five percentage points to 26%. Meanwhile, support for One Nation has fallen five points nationally, despite the party’s recent byelection win in Western Australia. The poll highlights growing public unease over immigration policies and social media content regulation.

Key takeaways

Anthony Albanese’s approval rating has hit a historic low, while Labor’s primary vote slips to 26%.
One Nation’s national support has declined to 23%, despite a recent byelection win.
Over 70% of Australians want stricter control over social media content.
55% of respondents believe violence against women has increased in recent years.

Labor's support erodes amid Albanese's declining approval

Labor’s primary vote has dropped to 26% in the latest Guardian Essential poll, a five-point decline from the previous month. This follows Anthony Albanese’s lowest approval rating as prime minister, signaling growing dissatisfaction among voters. The decline comes as the government faces pressure over immigration policies and social media regulation. Analysts suggest the dip may reflect broader frustration with Labor’s handling of key issues, including economic stability and national security. The Coalition has regained ground, capitalizing on Labor’s struggles to maintain its base.

One Nation's national support wanes despite local victory

Despite winning a byelection in Secret Harbour, Western Australia, One Nation’s national primary vote has fallen to 23%, down from a peak of 28% earlier this year. The decline suggests that voter enthusiasm for Pauline Hanson’s party may be cooling, even as immigration remains a contentious issue. The poll indicates that while One Nation retains significant support, its momentum has slowed. Political observers note that the party’s ability to sustain its appeal may depend on how effectively it addresses rising concerns about border security and cultural identity.

Australians demand stricter social media content controls

More than 70% of Australians agree or strongly agree that they want greater control over the content they see on social media, according to the poll. Labor is considering tougher regulations, including bans on explicit content such as sexual strangulation and other violent material. Only 4% of respondents disagreed with the need for stricter controls. The push for regulation reflects growing public concern over the spread of harmful content online. The government’s discussions on these measures come amid broader debates about digital safety and accountability.

Majority believe violence against women has increased

The poll found that 55% of Australians believe violence against women has risen in recent years. This perception aligns with ongoing national discussions about gender-based violence and safety. The government has not yet commented on whether this data will influence policy decisions, but the findings underscore the urgency of addressing the issue. Advocacy groups have long called for stronger measures to combat violence, and the poll results may amplify those calls. The data highlights a gap between public perception and official statistics, which have shown mixed trends in reported cases.

Coalition gains ground as immigration debate intensifies

The Coalition has regained political momentum as Labor’s support declines, with the immigration debate serving as a key dividing line. The poll suggests that voters are increasingly concerned about border security and the government’s handling of asylum seeker policies. While One Nation’s influence has waned slightly, the broader debate over immigration remains a potent issue. Political analysts note that the Coalition’s focus on these topics could further erode Labor’s support in the coming months. The shift in voter sentiment may force Labor to reconsider its messaging on immigration and national security.

Public sentiment shifts on technology and social media

The poll reveals a strong public appetite for stricter regulation of social media content, particularly violent or explicit material. Labor’s discussions on banning such content reflect a broader trend toward greater oversight of digital platforms. However, the lack of detailed policy proposals leaves questions about how these regulations would be implemented. The government’s approach to technology policy remains a work in progress, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks. The findings suggest that voters are increasingly prioritizing online safety and accountability.

What happens next

The government is expected to address the findings of the poll in the coming weeks, with potential announcements on social media regulation and immigration policy. Labor may also reassess its messaging to regain voter confidence. Meanwhile, the Coalition will likely continue to emphasize border security and national security as key issues. The shifting political landscape could lead to further adjustments in party strategies ahead of the next election.