Labor’s 94-seat victory in the recent election set the stage for what many anticipated would be a bold legislative agenda. However, political scientists have noted that this landslide was built on a historically low primary vote and a strong preference flow, suggesting a broad but shallow mandate. Despite this, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has framed 2025 as his “year of delivery,” emphasizing a commitment to fulfilling key promises.
Albanese, speaking at the National Press Club in June, underscored the importance of delivering on promises made to Australians who supported Labor for lower taxes, stronger Medicare, better education, and cost-of-living relief. His rhetoric consistently positions this year as “a step on the journey, not the destination.”
Legislative Achievements and Their Impact
Since May, the Albanese government has passed 50 pieces of legislation, aligning with several of Labor’s campaign promises. Notable achievements include long-overdue environmental law reforms, the establishment of an Australian Centre for Disease Control, and measures to make medicines more affordable. Additionally, responsive laws such as the creation of the Triple Zero Custodian and strengthened childcare oversight have been enacted.
While some critics argue that these efforts represent “low-hanging fruit,” a senior government insider defends the agenda, highlighting the necessity of securing Senate support for these reforms. “There’s always a lot of that unspoken stuff that just churns through. But we got a lot of it done,” the insider noted.
Key Legislative Highlights
- Education: The Universities Accord bill, which includes a 20% reduction in student debt, passed with the support of the Greens and progressive crossbenchers.
- Home Affairs: The Customs Amendment bill implements obligations under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE.
- Health: The Health Legislation Amendment aims to strengthen Medicare integrity and reduce pharmaceutical costs.
- Environment: The Environment Protection Reform establishes a National Environmental Protection Agency.
“We know that delivery matters for all those Australians who voted Labor,” Albanese stated, reinforcing his commitment to legislative progress.
Challenges and Unfulfilled Promises
Despite these accomplishments, several key promises remain unmet. Legislation to expand the role of nurses in primary care, punish misconduct within the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and improve mobile coverage is still pending. Additionally, efforts to tackle financial abuse of women and ban non-compete clauses to support wage growth have yet to materialize.
Looking ahead, the government faces pressure to address significant issues such as gambling advertising, tax reform, and housing affordability. These areas, if addressed, could contribute to a more ambitious legacy for the Albanese administration.
Expert Opinions and Future Directions
Political analysts suggest that the Albanese government must balance immediate legislative achievements with longer-term strategic goals. “It’s a case study in attacking the low-hanging fruit, with a few notable exceptions,” commented a crossbench source, emphasizing the need for more substantial reforms.
As the year progresses, the government is expected to prioritize expedited legislation in response to the Bondi terror attack, focusing on hate speech laws and gun reform. Additionally, freedom of information law reforms remain on the agenda, despite opposition from both the Coalition and the Greens.
By the Numbers: “50 pieces of legislation passed since May, aligning with several of Labor’s campaign promises.”
Conclusion: A Year of Delivery with Room for Growth
As the Albanese government approaches the end of its first year in this term, it faces the dual challenge of delivering on immediate promises while laying the groundwork for more ambitious reforms. With several months remaining before the parliament enters its second year, the focus will likely shift towards addressing unresolved issues and setting the stage for future legislative efforts.
Ultimately, the success of Albanese’s “year of delivery” will depend on the government’s ability to navigate political challenges and fulfill its commitments to the Australian people, ensuring that this year is indeed a step on the journey towards a more comprehensive and impactful legislative legacy.
