Labor, Albanese extend leads in latest YouGov polling

Labor now leads the Coalition 52.5 per cent to 47.5 per cent in the two-party preferred vote – a 1.5 per cent increase from last week – in the latest YouGov polling released early Friday morning.

It marks the highest two-party preferred vote for Labor in 18 months, just surpassing the party’s winning numbers in the 2022 federal election, according to YouGov’s analysis.

The Coalition’s primary vote fell by 1.5 per cent to 33.5 per cent, while Labor’s rose by 2 per cent to 32 per cent.

Mr Albanese scored 48 per cent of the vote in the race for preferred prime minister, compared to Mr Dutton’s 37 per cent.

YouGov analysis indicates the 11 per cent margin is the largest Mr Albanese has enjoyed since June last year.

Mr Albanese is in the NT in the seat of Solomon on day 14 of the campaign. Picture: Jason Edwards / NewsWire

Net satisfaction for both party leaders remained negative, though while Mr Albanese’s score improved to reach -2 per cent, Mr Dutton’s sharply declined to -15 per cent – which YouGov said represented his equal lowest rating to-date.

The polling was conducted between April 4 and April 10 and surveyed 1505 Australians.

Speaking of the apparent shift in public sentiment, YouGov director of public data Paul Smith attributed blame to the unpopularity of now-canned Coalition policies such as the ban on work-from-home arrangements and sacking 41,000 public servants.

“Dutton’s backdown on his controversial work-from-home policies and public sector sackings has directly impacted his standing with voters, as evidenced by his falling a further 4 per cent behind as preferred prime minister,” Mr Smith said.

“Meanwhile, Albanese continues to solidify his lead as preferred prime minister with his satisfaction ratings showing a steady improvement.”

Mr Dutton has suffered a significant drop in the polls since the election was called last month. Picture Thomas Lisson / NewsWire