One Nation Surges Ahead of Labor in Australian Poll Amid Backlash Over Property Tax Reforms

Australia’s right-wing populist party One Nation has overtaken the ruling Labor Party in a national opinion poll for the first time, reflecting growing voter dissatisfaction with the government’s recent budget reforms and economic policies.

According to a widely followed survey conducted by RedBridge Group and Accent Research, primary support for One Nation climbed four percentage points to 31% compared with the previous month. Meanwhile, support for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s center-left Labor Party fell three points to 28%, while the conservative Coalition opposition dropped two points to 20%.

The poll results come shortly after the Australian government unveiled its May 12 budget, which included the most significant property tax reforms in decades. The measures were designed to address intergenerational wealth inequality and improve housing affordability, particularly for younger Australians struggling to enter the property market.

However, the survey suggests the reforms have failed to resonate with many voters. The proposed changes were especially unpopular among Generation X and Baby Boomer voters, who expressed concerns about their financial impact. Surprisingly, younger Australians also appeared unconvinced by the government’s efforts. Only 26% of Millennials and 13% of Generation Z respondents said they believed the budget measures would benefit them personally.

Despite the decline in primary support, Labor maintained a narrow advantage under Australia’s preferential voting system. When voter preferences were redistributed, Labor led One Nation by 51% to 49% on a two-party-preferred basis.

The poll surveyed 1,005 voters between May 25 and May 28 and carried a margin of error of 3.4%.

Founded in 1997 and led by Pauline Hanson, One Nation has traditionally remained on the fringes of Australian federal politics. Its recent rise in popularity has been fueled by concerns over the cost-of-living crisis, economic uncertainty, and growing anti-immigration sentiment among sections of the electorate.

The latest polling highlights shifting political dynamics in Australia and underscores increasing voter frustration with mainstream parties as economic pressures continue to shape public opinion.