**Labor Wins Australian Federal Election in Major Backlash Against Far Right**
After a heated campaign, the Labor party has secured a federal election victory in Australia, marking a significant shift away from conservative policies and towards a more center-left government. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will serve a second term, becoming the first leader to do so since John Howard in 2004.
The election results showed a clear majority for Labor, with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) projecting the party to win 86 seats. The coalition, led by Peter Dutton, secured just 39 seats, down 18 from the previous election. This represents a significant loss for the conservative party and a major gain for Labor.
**A Rejection of Far-Right Politics**
The victory is seen as a major backlash against Donald Trump-style politics and the country’s rightward drift under the conservative coalition. The campaign was framed by Labor as a choice between steady leadership and chaos, with key issues including the rising cost of living, wage growth, and the Coalition’s proposals to restrict remote work for public servants.
Dutton’s “Trump-lite” policies, including plans to cut public service jobs, alienated some voters and were seen as a major turn-off. The unpopular 10-percent tariff on Australian goods imposed by Trump also raised concerns among voters, contributing to the coalition’s poor performance.
**A Foreign Policy Shift**
The election result is significant not only domestically but also in foreign policy terms. Albanese has been vocal about his opposition to Russia and support for Ukraine, committing over $1.3 billion in aid and backing international efforts to hold Russia accountable for its invasion.
Australia has imposed sanctions on over 1,200 individuals and entities linked to Russia’s war and called on China to use its influence to help end the conflict. Albanese’s comments dismissing reports of a potential Russian military base in Indonesia as “propaganda” also reflect his tough stance against Moscow.
**What’s Next?**
The election result marks a significant shift towards a more center-left government in Australia, but it remains to be seen how this will impact the country’s foreign policy and relationship with key partners like China and Russia. One thing is certain: Labor’s victory is a clear rejection of far-right politics and a desire for steady leadership and stability.
**Commentary**
The election result highlights the growing unease among Australian voters about the direction of their country under conservative rule. The campaign was marked by debates over issues like climate change, wage growth, and foreign policy, with Labor’s more nuanced approach resonating with voters.
“This is a victory for sanity and sense in Australia,” said Henry Maher, a politics lecturer at the University of Sydney. “The public has rejected the far-right policies and divisive rhetoric that characterized the coalition’s campaign.”
As the dust settles on this election result, one thing is clear: Labor’s victory will have significant implications for Australian politics and foreign policy.
