Australia's Parliament Begins New Era Under Labor Majority
Australia's Parliament convened for the first time under the Labor Party's large majority. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized unity and acknowledged the Indigenous Welcome to Country ceremony. Key legislative priorities include reducing student loan debt and reforming childcare funding. Labor's historic win marks a new chapter in Australian politics.
- Country:
- Australia
Australia's Parliament has convened for the first time since the Labor Party secured its historic majority in the May elections. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese opened proceedings with a nod to the traditional owners of Canberra, marking the significance of Indigenous welcoming ceremonies, a practice pioneered by Labor in 2007.
The government has announced its first legislative priority: a bill to cut student loan debt by 20%, benefiting three million Australians with a budgetary impact of AU$16 billion. Additional legislative efforts will focus on childcare funding reforms and protecting wage rates.
Labor's win, securing 94 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, is reminiscent of John Howard's coalition success in 1996. Meanwhile, opposition leader Sussan Ley takes charge of the Liberal Party after a historic defeat. With no Senate majority, Labor must negotiate with Greens or conservatives to pass legislation.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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