Reported at www.theguardian.com: A recent Guardian Essential poll indicates that Anthony Albanese’s approval rating has dropped to minus eight, with nearly half of Australians unsure of their voting intentions ahead of the upcoming federal election.

Despite this dip, voters perceive Albanese as better positioned than Peter Dutton to address cost-of-living issues and safeguard Medicare, with Labor leading slightly in key areas such as wage support.

The poll also reveals a divided preference between the major parties, with the Coalition slightly ahead at 48% compared to Labor’s 47%.