Australia’s re-elected Labor government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has unveiled a broad array of policy measures set to reshape major aspects of Australian life.
From healthcare and housing to energy and education, the government enters its second term with a focus on affordability, equity, and long-term structural changes.
With billions already pledged, the scope of commitments signals a significant expansion of government intervention in core areas. The package has implications for households, workers, businesses and vulnerable populations across the country.
Healthcare and mental health services see major expansion
A cornerstone of Labor’s second-term agenda is the overhaul of the public healthcare system. According to government plans, bulk billing incentives will now apply to all Australians, with specific new support to encourage general practices to participate.
The ‘1800MEDICARE’ hotline will offer 24-hour access to free telehealth consultations, aiming to reduce pressure on emergency departments and improve rural access.
The number of urgent care clinics is set to grow by 50, adding to the 87 currently in operation. In women’s health, new funding will deliver specialised clinics for those suffering from conditions such as endometriosis and menopause, with associated medications included under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Most prescriptions under the PBS will now be capped at $25, while the existing $7.70 concessional rate remains frozen until June 2029.
The government has also committed to expanding mental health services, promising to upgrade or create more than 100 clinics with varied specialisations. More than 1,200 new mental health professionals will be trained, alongside further investment in medical and nursing education.
Structural reforms to housing, cost of living, and women’s safety
On housing, Labor is removing caps on its 5% deposit scheme, making all first-home buyers eligible regardless of income. It also plans to construct 100,000 affordable homes exclusively for first-time buyers, with work beginning in 2026–27.
The Help to Buy shared equity programme will be expanded through increased income and property thresholds, enabling more people to enter the market with as little as a 2% deposit.
In response to rising expenses, households will receive $150 in energy relief through two $75 credits. Taxpayers can also expect an automatic $1,000 deduction on work-related expenses beginning in 2026–27.
Meanwhile, two income tax cuts will benefit earners above $45,000. New legislation will penalise price gouging, targeting supermarket chains.
Women’s safety initiatives include wider use of electronic monitoring for high-risk offenders and the construction of more crisis housing. The government also proposes legislative changes to ensure perpetrators can no longer benefit financially from their victims’ superannuation after death, according to published commitments.
This extensive agenda reflects a broad approach to social policy, with Labour aiming to strengthen public services, reinforce economic fairness, and improve overall national wellbeing.
