As Australia approaches another federal election, voters find themselves facing a familiar dilemma: choosing between the Australian Labor Party (ALP) and the Coalition (Liberal-National Party). While these two parties dominate the political landscape, their policies and governance styles have increasingly drawn criticism. Despite their superficial differences, both parties often sing from the same songbook when it comes to economic and corporate interests, leaving ordinary Australians with little real choice. This article examines recent polling trends, critiques of both parties, and the ways in which their policies favour corporations over voters.

Election Polling and Public Sentiment

Recent opinion polls indicate a tightly contested race between the ALP and the Coalition. According to a Roy Morgan poll conducted from February 3–9, 2025, the ALP currently holds 40.5% primary support, while the Coalition trails at 29%, resulting in a two-party preferred split of 51.5% for Labor and 48.5% for the Coalition. Similarly, a RedBridge Group poll from February 3–7, 2025, shows the ALP at 40% and the Coalition at 31%, with the same two-party preferred outcome. Despite these numbers, voter dissatisfaction with both parties remains high, as many Australians see little difference in how they govern.

Why the Australian Labor Party (ALP) Fails Voters

While the ALP has positioned itself as the party of workers and social justice, its recent actions suggest otherwise. Several key issues highlight why Labor is failing the Australian public.

1. Infrastructure Spending and Mismanagement

One of the most glaring examples of mismanagement under the ALP is the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) project in Victoria. Premier Jacinta Allan has been under scrutiny over the project’s timeline and funding. The federal government’s commitment of $34.5 billion to this infrastructure initiative has raised concerns about whether this money is being wisely allocated. Critics argue that instead of improving existing transport networks, this massive expenditure diverts resources from other critical infrastructure projects that would better serve Australians.

2. Electoral Reforms That Protect Major Parties

Labor recently worked with the Coalition to pass electoral reforms that cap individual political donations at $50,000 and overall party campaign spending at $90 million. While framed as a measure to reduce corruption, these changes disproportionately harm independent candidates and minor parties. By limiting fundraising capabilities, the reforms effectively consolidate power within the two-party system, reducing voter choice and ensuring corporate-backed political entities remain dominant.

3. Support for Stage Three Tax Cuts

The ALP initially opposed the controversial Stage Three tax cuts, which largely benefit higher-income earners. However, after winning office, Labor endorsed the full tax plan, aligning itself with the Coalition’s economic agenda. These cuts reduce the progressive nature of Australia’s tax system, disproportionately benefiting corporations and wealthy individuals while doing little to ease financial pressures for middle and lower-income earners.

4. Growing Disconnect from Labor’s Base

Despite branding itself as a party for the working class, Labor has increasingly prioritized corporate-friendly policies. For example, its failure to implement meaningful reforms in areas such as workers’ rights and social welfare suggests that the ALP is more interested in maintaining business confidence than addressing economic inequality.

Why the Coalition (Liberal-National Party) Also Fails Voters

The Coalition has long been associated with pro-business policies and economic liberalism. While its governance style is distinct from the ALP in certain respects, the Coalition’s track record suggests it is equally unworthy of voter support.

1. Economic Management That Favors Corporations

Under past Coalition governments, corporate tax cuts and deregulation have taken precedence over policies that benefit ordinary Australians. The party has championed economic strategies that prioritize the interests of big business, often at the expense of small businesses and workers.

2. Social Policy Stagnation

The Coalition has resisted progressive policies on climate change, social welfare, and workers’ rights. Despite widespread public support for stronger environmental regulations and increased social spending, the party continues to cater to business lobbies and fossil fuel interests, ignoring the growing demand for action on key social issues.

3. Aligning with Labor on Electoral Reforms

The Coalition worked with the ALP to pass restrictive electoral reforms that disadvantage independent candidates. This bipartisan move demonstrates that both major parties prioritize self-preservation over democratic fairness, limiting voter choice and ensuring that corporate-backed politicians remain in power.

Where Both Major Parties Align on Corporate Interests

Despite their supposed ideological differences, both the ALP and the Coalition frequently align on policies that benefit corporations over the public. Here are some key areas where this bipartisan favouritism is most evident:

1. Tax Policies That Favor the Wealthy

Both parties have supported tax reforms that overwhelmingly benefit high-income earners and big businesses. The Stage Three tax cuts are a prime example of this alignment, demonstrating that neither party is willing to implement truly progressive taxation that would ease the burden on ordinary Australians.

2. Lack of Genuine Banking and Corporate Regulation

Following the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation, and Financial Services Industry, both parties failed to implement strong regulatory measures to curb corporate malpractice. Instead, they allowed banks and financial institutions to continue operating with minimal oversight, prioritizing economic stability for corporations over consumer protections.

3. Political Donations and Lobbying Influence

Despite new donation caps, both major parties have deep ties to corporate donors and lobbyists. This financial backing heavily influences policy decisions, ensuring that the interests of big businesses take precedence over those of everyday Australians.

4. Military and Defence Spending

Both parties have committed to massive defence expenditures, often prioritizing military deals with the United States and other allies over domestic investment in healthcare, education, and social services. This bipartisan approach to foreign policy and defence highlights a shared commitment to global strategic interests rather than domestic well-being.

The Need for a Viable Alternative

With both major parties failing to address the needs of ordinary Australians, it is clear that the country requires a strong alternative. Independents and minor parties offer a potential solution, advocating for policies that prioritize voter interests over corporate influence.

1. Support for Independents and Minor Parties

Australians should consider supporting independent candidates and smaller parties that prioritize genuine democratic reforms, social justice, and economic fairness. The success of grassroots movements in recent elections suggests that voters are increasingly willing to challenge the two-party system.

2. Electoral Reform That Benefits Voters, Not Politicians

To counteract the stranglehold of the major parties, electoral reforms should focus on increasing transparency, reducing corporate influence, and ensuring fair competition among candidates.

3. Holding Politicians Accountable

Regardless of party affiliation, Australians must demand greater accountability from their elected representatives. Increased scrutiny and political engagement can help pressure major parties to adopt more voter-centric policies.

Conclusion

As the 2025 Australian federal election approaches, voters must recognize that neither the ALP nor the Coalition genuinely represents their interests. While both parties claim to offer distinct visions for the country, their policies consistently favour corporations, the wealthy, and entrenched political interests over ordinary Australians. By exploring alternatives and demanding real political change, Australians can break free from the two-party system and push for a government that truly serves the people.