As of June 2026, the Australian Labor Party is being urged to maintain its policy positions amid a surge in support for the right-wing One Nation party. Recent opinion polls, including a June 2026 Roy Morgan survey, show One Nation's primary vote increasing to around 8-10%, up from 4-5% in 2025, potentially threatening Labor's electoral standing in key seats.
Political analysts note that One Nation's rise is driven by voter discontent over cost-of-living pressures and immigration policies. Labor strategists are advised to focus on economic messaging and social cohesion to counter the populist appeal, without shifting to the right on core issues.
The surge has sparked debate within Labor ranks, with some MPs calling for a stronger stance on border security and economic nationalism. However, party leadership has so far resisted calls to adopt One Nation's policies, emphasizing a progressive agenda on climate and social welfare.
Experts warn that if Labor fails to address voter concerns, it could lose support in regional and outer-suburban electorates, where One Nation is gaining traction. The next federal election, due by 2027, will test the party's strategy.
