Albanese Sworn In Second Term as Liberal Party Selects Ley Leader

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was sworn in for a second term following a landslide victory for the Labor Party, which formed the largest centre-left government since Australia's federation in 1901. The Labor Party's success was partly attributed to a voter backlash against global instability linked to U.S. President Donald Trump's policies. The opposition Liberal Party, having lost several key seats including that of their leader Peter Dutton, appointed Sussan Ley as their new leader, marking the first time a woman has led the federal Liberal Party. Ley emphasized the need for new economic and tax reforms alongside signaling progress for Australian women, following recent losses by the party in major cities to independent candidates focused on climate change and gender equality. Albanese's cabinet saw both continuity and change, with key positions such as treasurer and foreign affairs remaining stable, while new appointments included Michelle Rowland as attorney-general and Murray Watt as environment minister. The new ministry was sworn in at Government House in Canberra, with Albanese preparing to engage in international diplomacy including visits to Indonesia and Rome.