Over half of Australians think the recent cash rate cut was too little, too late and a sign of the Labor government’s economic strategy failing. However, voters still believe Anthony Albanese is better equipped than Peter Dutton to address living costs, increase wages, and protect Medicare. Albanese’s approval rating has dropped to minus eight in the latest Guardian Essential poll, though his party is perceived as being better or no worse than the Coalition on several key issues. The poll showed significant voter indecision, with nearly half not yet decided on their vote. The federal election is set to occur by May 17, and speculation is growing that Albanese may launch the official campaign this weekend. The poll also found a division on the effectiveness of the interest rate cut, with more people viewing it as insufficient rather than a positive sign of economic management. Labor leads in voter trust to support higher wages and manage Medicare, while there is a split on economic management, with no significant difference perceived between the major parties.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/04/guardian-essential-poll-albanese-dutton-approval-rating-rba-rate-cut