Australia: Political developments and data in 2025 – Labor landslide, Coalition collapse

Abstract This article examines key political developments in Australia during 2025, an election year. The databook entry covers results from the 2025 Landslide re-election of the incumbent Australian Labor Party and their aftermath. Regional elections in two jurisdictions, where both incumbents were returned, as well as a federal Cabinet reshuffle and institutional changes which reformed campaign finance and donations are also discussed. The gender composition of the Federal parliament improved, largely on the back of Labor’s huge majority. The party system faced pressure with the Coalition’s record low election performance, and record performance for Independents and minor parties. National policy issues centred on persistent cost-of-living pressures, including inflation and housing and environmental law reforms. Foreign policy challenges included the Gaza conflict, managing Australia’s relationship with China and continued commitment to the AUKUS submarine programme.