UPDATE: Australia’s 48th Parliament officially opens on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as MPs prepare to tackle significant legislative changes amid a reshaped political landscape. With Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commanding a robust parliamentary majority, the stakes are high for both Labor and the opposition.
As MPs and senators gather, Labor holds 94 of the 150 seats in the House of Representatives, a substantial increase that could ease the party’s agenda implementation. In stark contrast, the opposition, led by Sussan Ley, is reduced to just 43 seats following a dramatic election outcome that left the coalition struggling.
Political analyst Jill Sheppard from the Australian National University warns that while this majority could aid Labor’s initiatives, it also presents new challenges. “The pitfall for the government is less so hubris because they still have to negotiate with a pretty boisterous Senate,” Sheppard stated. “The bigger issue for Labor is wrangling the 94 members of their caucus, and that’s going to be a real challenge.”
The opening session will include the swearing-in of MPs and the election of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Senate president. Immediate legislative priorities include a 20% reduction in HECS debt for university students, protections for penalty rates, and enhanced safety measures at childcare centres.
The coalition is currently reviewing its previous policies but has indicated potential support for the student debt reduction and childcare protection laws. Ley emphasized her commitment to challenge the government, stating, “That’s what people expect. They want a parliament that understands their lives and a government that gets out of the way. Our policies are up for review, but our values are not.”
Despite the coalition’s setbacks, Sheppard notes that the smaller numbers could provide an opportunity for Ley to solidify her leadership. “Even before the election, the Liberals had a confidence problem,” she said. “Their frontbench was not very deep, and that’s a huge problem that’s not easy to fix in a term.”
As the new parliament convenes, all eyes will be on how these dynamics unfold. The opening session is a critical moment for both sides as they navigate the complexities of governance and public expectation in the wake of significant electoral changes.
Stay tuned for updates on the proceedings and the immediate impacts of these legislative priorities.
