The latest Guardian Essential poll reveals a shifting political landscape in Australia, marked by a notable decline in support for the two major parties and the minor party One Nation. Labor’s national primary vote has fallen by five percentage points over the last month, landing at 26%. This puts the party in a statistical tie with the Coalition, which also recorded a primary vote of 26%.

Simultaneously, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has seen his approval rating drop to its lowest point since he assumed the role of prime minister. The data suggests a broader trend of voter dissatisfaction, as the poll also captured a decline for One Nation. Despite the party’s recent victory in the Secret Harbour byelection in Western Australia, its national primary vote has dropped five percentage points since May, falling from a peak of 28% to 23%.

While the poll provides a snapshot of current voter sentiment, it highlights a period of volatility for the major political players. The figures suggest that neither the government nor the opposition is currently commanding a clear lead in primary support, reflecting a fragmented electorate. The decline in popularity for both the incumbent government and the surging minor party indicates that voters are re-evaluating their preferences amidst ongoing national economic and political pressures.