The Liberal party is “cheering against Australia’s interest” regarding upcoming US steel and aluminium tariffs, according to Anthony Albanese. Big hopes that President Trump will give the exemption that we were seeking are fading. The talk between the PM and Donald Trump left us under the consideration for an Australian tariffs exemption but hopes are all played out. The tariffs are going to start on 12 March. Trump has also confirmed that the global trade barriers “will not be modified”. This further puts doubt on Australia’s exemption bid. As of now, nobody has traveled to Washington DC to meet with Trump to secure a special treat for Australia. The shadow foreign minister said that “Australia needs the prime minister secure this exemption”. During a press conference on Tropical Cyclone Alfred which is nearing the Queensland coast, they pointed out that they were focused on the natural disaster but that Australia would continue to put its case to the US for the exemption. Australians will judge the circus that is happening over this situation.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/07/anthony-albanese-donald-trump-australia-tariffs-liberals