In his first press conference since winning re-election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese projected a new, assertive tone, calling for “respect” from both the media and political peers, and signalling a shift in his leadership style. Albanese demands ‘Respect’ in first post-election press conference.
Addressing journalists from the Prime Ministerial courtyard, Mr Albanese hit back at what he described as immature media coverage, particularly regarding his outreach to crossbench MPs. “With respect, frankly, get a bit of maturity about you,” he told reporters, responding to criticism of his decision to invite independents to The Lodge.
Despite securing a strong parliamentary majority, the Prime Minister stressed he would continue engaging with independents and crossbenchers with “good ideas,” reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance.
He also reaffirmed his first policy priority: a 20% cut to HECS student debt, describing it as a clear mandate from voters. He warned the Senate not to obstruct the plan, referencing the recent electoral defeats of key Liberal and Greens housing spokespeople as a sign of public sentiment.
Throughout the press conference, Albanese underlined Labor’s ambition to become the “natural party of government,” citing the talent of his shadow cabinet and commitment to delivering real results.
When questioned about rumours regarding future cabinet appointments—specifically Tanya Plibersek and the NDIS portfolio—Albanese firmly dismissed the speculation, reminding the press that only he knows the final decisions. “Unless it comes out of my mouth, it is nonsense,” he said.
In closing, he emphasised that respect would remain central to his leadership. “My door is open to all members of parliament. They all deserve to be treated with respect,” he said.
The press conference marked a notable shift in tone for the Prime Minister, combining policy focus with a clear assertion of authority—and setting the stage for a more disciplined and confident second term.
Big ALP win in the Senate
The major election victory in the House of Representatives by the Labor Party, which appears to have secured 87 seats may be repeated in the Senate. Labor will have a far friendlier Senate to work with this parliament in a major boost to its hopes of implementing the policy platform it took to the election, while Jacqui Lambie is in a tight race to retain he seat.
While upper house results take weeks to be finalised, the early counting indicates the Albanese government will pick up at least two seats: one in South Australia and one in Queensland.
It could also make gains in NSW, Victoria, and Western Australia, with Labor candidates currently leading the race to claim the final available seat in each of those states, although more than 50 per cent of the vote remains to be counted.
Even without any of those three, the two extras already as good as confirmed would give Labor 27 seats, leaving it needing to find 12 extra votes to pass legislation.
The Greens have had a far better election in the Senate than the House of Representatives – it looks likely to retain all of its upper house seats, even as it’s been reduced from four to as little as one in the lower house.
That result would leave Labor only needing to negotiate with the Greens and one other independent to pass legislation if it is opposed by the Coalition.
Despite the increase in the Senate, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he wouldn’t be going beyond the mandate handed to his party in Saturday’s crushing election win.
