Albanese Faces Criticism Over ‘Vindictive’ Decision as Coalition MPs Experience Reduction in Staff Numbers | Australian Politics Update

Anthony Albanese has come under fire from the opposition for decreasing their staff allocation following Labor’s significant election win, with accusations of a vindictive and politically driven move. Critics argue that One Nation, which doubled its Senate seats, was unfairly denied its entitled share of advisors. Almost seven weeks post-election, with federal parliament set to reconvene on July 22, Albanese has finalized staffing arrangements for opposition and crossbench members for the coming term. Personal staff, typically senior advisors assisting with policy and strategy, are under the prime minister’s discretion. Albanese informed the opposition leader, Sussan Ley, that they would lose about 20 personal staff roles, including 16 senior positions. The Coalition argues that under parliamentary convention, they are entitled to 21% of the government’s allocation, amounting to approximately 102 positions. However, they will receive about 85 roles. James McGrath, the shadow special minister of state, condemns the decision as an attack on accountability. The opposition also claims that the Greens’ staffing numbers have been cut due to the loss of seats and defection. The government spokespeople defend the decision as a routine revision of staff allocations, based on need and individual circumstances.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jun/24/anthony-albanese-criticised-for-vindictive-move-after-coalition-mps-see-staff-numbers-slashed