Australia's Nationals call for lower migration as One Nation overtakes Labor

A new Newspoll shows Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party leading the primary vote at 31%, ahead of Labor at 30% and with the Coalition falling to 18%. The Nationals, citing voter frustration, are urging the government to cut the migration intake. Nationals leader Matt Canavan told Sky News that voters want lower migration and tighter focus on living costs, interest rates and spending control.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded by promising a reduction in the migration intake, while Environment Minister Murray Watt said the government is addressing voter concerns through tax‑reform measures in the May budget. The Labor Party has asked supporters to donate up to $27 for social‑media ads targeting One Nation as the party’s support grows.

The story reflects growing populist sentiment in Australia and the political pressure on the major parties to address economic anxieties and immigration policy.