Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has disclosed his plans to step down from the top job, telling the 7NEWS podcast The Issue that he will leave when he stops growing as a person. The last prime minister to leave office voluntarily was Sir Robert Menzies in 1966; since then, all 15 successors were removed by voters, their party, or death.
Albanese confirmed he will contest the 2028 federal election but has no plans beyond that. “I’m enjoying this job, but I don’t take it for granted at all,” he said, adding that stability has been a hallmark of his government.
The Prime Minister also warned that the upcoming federal budget on May 12 will be “tough.” Measures already announced include removing 160,000 participants from the National Disability Insurance Scheme to save $15 billion by 2030. The government appears unlikely to introduce a 25% tax on gas exports.
Albanese noted the budget is being framed amid global uncertainty, with treasury and finance staff adjusting figures daily. He ruled out policies that would make it harder for first home buyers, emphasising housing supply as a priority.
On foreign policy, Albanese said Australia will not send Navy assets to the Strait of Hormuz, leaving the task to European allies. He reaffirmed the US as Australia’s most important security partner, but stressed Australia is “out there dating in our region” beyond that relationship.
