Brussels: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has acknowledged that the growing influence of far-right political forces, particularly the One Nation party, was a factor behind his government's decision to pursue significant tax reforms in its May budget. When asked about Australia's economic outlook, Albanese said the government cannot afford to stand still in an era when voters in many Western democracies are increasingly turning to populist movements.

According to Anadolu Agency, Albanese stated that One Nation's rise is part of the context, arguing that governments must respond to public concerns with meaningful policy action rather than allow dissatisfaction to deepen. He emphasized that when people feel that the economy isn't working for them, they can turn to simplistic, grievance-based politics, as per a transcript of his remarks released by his office.

The center-left Labor government unveiled a package of tax changes in its May budget aimed at providing relief to low- and middle-income earners and addressing cost-of-living pressures. Albanese indicated that the reforms reflected a political judgment that governments must deliver 'real change for the better' to maintain public confidence.

One Nation, founded by Pauline Hanson, is a nationalist and anti-immigration party often described as part of Australia's far-right political spectrum. The party has sought to capitalize on voter concerns over migration, economic pressures, and dissatisfaction with mainstream political parties.

Albanese's comments come amid a broader resurgence of populist and right-wing movements across several Western countries, driven in part by concerns over inflation, living costs, and economic inequality.