Table of contents
- Australian Left Politics
- What are the 5 Major Political Parties in Australia?
- Australian Political Parties
- List of Australian Political Parties
- Australian Left Wing Media
- Radical Environmental groups
- Australian Socialist Websites
- Is Labor Left or Right in Australia?
- Is Australia Liberal or Conservative?
- Is Albanese Left or Right?
- Is Kevin Rudd Labor Left or Right
- Socialist Women in Parliament
Australian Left Politics
The Australian left played a crucial role in Australian history, from pre-federation and for the first half of the 20th century. However, since the middle of the 20th century, mainstream Australian politics has been dominated by two political parties, the centrist ALP and the Conservative LNP.
The left has come a long way since the early days of the labour movement. In recent history progressive politics has again gathered traction, with a growing number of Australians advocating for policies that prioritise social justice, environmental protection, and human rights.
The Australian Labor Party (ALP) is Australia’s oldest political party. It emerged from the socialist tradition, but after adopting neoliberal reforms the party is now widely considered a ‘centrist’ political party. The ALP currently forms government in Australia.
What are the 5 Major Political Parties in Australia?
These were the largest five registered parties by vote at the 2025 Federal Election:
- Australian Labor Party
- Liberal Party of Australia
- The Greens
- Liberal National Party of Queensland
- The Nationals
Australian Left Wing Parties
In more recent times, new socialist parties have emerged. Following increased awareness of social issues, and a growing sense of urgency around climate change, the Australian left has become a diverse and dynamic movement. Left parties today include the Australian Greens, Socialist Alliance and Victorian Socialists:
Australian Political Parties
Right now, there are 32 political parties officially registered with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC). But out of those, only nine actually have seats in Federal Parliament. The major players you’ve probably heard of are the ALP, the Liberals, and The Nationals.
List of Australian Political Parties
You can obtain a full list of parties registered nationally from the Australian Electoral Commission website.
Australian Left Wing Media
Below is a list of some Australian left wing media outlets. You can get a more exhaustive list at our post on Socialist Media.
Resistance Books is an Australian based non-profit, progressive book publisher and distributor.
Resistance Books aims to publish both a range of the classic works of Marxism and socialism as well as titles dealing with contemporary issues from a radical perspective, all in cheap and accessible editions. Currently, they have around 90 titles in print.
Radical Environmental groups
Radical environmental groups operate as a grassroots presence of the larger environmental movement. They often emerge out of frustration with the co-option of mainstream environmentalism.
Australian Socialist Websites
Australian Left Unions
Is Labor Left or Right in Australia?
The Australian Labor Party (ALP) is a centrist political party. While many of its members hold left-wing beliefs, the party adopted light neoliberal policies in the 20th century.
Today, the ALP does not have an agenda to nationalise industries or to dramatically increase welfare payments by taxing the super-wealthy. It maintains engagement with the private sector.
On the national political spectrum, the ALP sits to the left of the Liberal Party, the National Party, as well as the far-right One Nation and Australia First parties. However, the ALP’s position on the spectrum is to the right of The Greens and a number of smaller parties, which now represent much of Australia’s remaining socialist movement.
Is Australia Liberal or Conservative?
Australia is regarded as a liberal democracy, similar to Canada, Ne Zealand and other western liberal democracies.
Is Albanese Left or Right?
Anthony Albanese was and remains a member of the left faction of the Australian Labor Party (ALP). Early in his career, Albanese championed progressive causes. At some point, however, he made a decision—whether consciously or not—to compromise his left-wing beliefs in pursuit of power.
As Prime Minister, Albanese has not pursued a left-wing agenda or advanced progressive policies. He has been the definition of a centrist Labor leader—some might even call him conservative, particularly given his steadfast support for the US alliance during the tenure of the fascistic Trump administration.
Is Kevin Rudd Labor Left or Right
Kevin Rudd served as an ALP Prime Minister, while a member of a right faction in the ALP.
Socialist Women in Parliament
There is an increasing number of women in the Australian Parliament as well as in the government. There are 69 women in the House of Representatives which is consistent with a trend of increased female representation in Parliament House. Most socialist women in the Australian Parliament serve in the Senate, most notably Senator Mehreen Faruqi.
The Future of the Australian Left
The future of the Australian left is uncertain, but there are many reasons to be optimistic. With a growing number of young people engaging in politics and advocating for progressive policies, there is a real possibility for change in the years to come.
However, there are also significant challenges to be faced, including the rise of right-wing populism and the ongoing threat of climate change. Ultimately, the future of the left will depend on the ability of its leaders and supporters to mobilise and organise effectively, and to build a broad-based movement that can bring about real change.
In conclusion, the Australian left has a rich and complex history, shaped by a variety of social, economic, and political factors. It is hard to predict the future of left politics in Australia.
Relevant References
Other Material