Angus Taylor approval rating has plummeted according to the latest Guardian Essential poll, while One Nation's primary vote has plateaued. The opposition leader's numbers are dangerously underwater, signaling potential trouble for the Coalition as it heads into the next election cycle.
Angus Taylor's Approval Rating Crashes
The Guardian Essential poll reveals a significant drop in Angus Taylor's approval rating, with the opposition leader now facing a net negative rating. This comes amid his inadvertent appearance at an Icac hearing, where he is not accused of wrongdoing, but the fallout could be profound, as noted by Anne Davies.
Peter Lewis, a political analyst, suggests that while the Albanese government appears in good shape, it must continue to test its thinking and policy positions to maintain its advantage.
One Nation's Vote Plateaus
One Nation's primary vote has plateaued, which might be seen as a silver lining for the Coalition, but the overall slippage in support indicates broader challenges. The poll highlights a volatile political landscape in Australia, with voters increasingly disenchanted with major parties.
Key Findings from the Essential Poll
- Angus Taylor's approval rating has crashed, now underwater.
- One Nation's primary vote has stabilized but not grown.
- The Coalition's overall support has slipped.
- The Albanese government remains in a relatively strong position.
Comparison of Approval Ratings (2024-2025)
| Leader | Approval (%) | Disapproval (%) | Net Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angus Taylor (Opposition) | 32 | 48 | -16 |
| Anthony Albanese (PM) | 45 | 41 | +4 |
The table above illustrates the stark contrast between the two leaders' standings. Angus Taylor's net rating of -16 is a cause for concern for the Coalition, while Albanese maintains a positive, albeit narrow, margin.

Implications for the Coalition
With Angus Taylor's approval plummeting, the Coalition faces an uphill battle in regaining voter trust. The Icac hearing, though not implicating Taylor in wrongdoing, has cast a shadow over his leadership.
Political analysts suggest that the Coalition needs to recalibrate its messaging and focus on key issues like cost of living and economic management to recover ground.
Australia Day and Other News
In other news, Qantas completed an ultra long-haul commercial flight from Melbourne to Toulouse, lasting 24 hours and 24 minutes, marking a milestone in aviation. Additionally, Ben Carroll, Victoria's new premier, announced a royal commission into construction sector corruption, aiming to reset Labor's fortunes in the state.