Cabinet backs Jim Chalmers as Treasurer despite low approval ratings

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 22:20 · Archive

Treasurer Jim Chalmers faces pressure over his handling of the economy as cabinet colleagues defend his position.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has recorded the lowest net approval rating in the Albanese cabinet amid pressure over his handling of the budget and government spending. The Albanese government has slumped in opinion polls, with Mr Chalmers largely being blamed as high inflation persists and interest rates continue to rise.

On Wednesday, cabinet minister Amanda Rishworth defended him on the Today Show when pressed on whether he retained cabinet support. 'Of course he does deserve to keep his job as treasurer,' she said. 'He plays a very critical role in our government, stewarding some of the most difficult reforms in our tax system to rebalance the tax system, to give first homeowners a crack at getting into the market. These are difficult reforms, and the treasurer is doing a great job.'

Ms Rishworth's support came a day after the Reserve Bank raised the official cash rate for the fifth time this year, putting further pressure on households. The television host suggested this was insufficient, saying 'He's not the water boy for the (Brisbane) Broncos, Amanda. He's the captain of the economy.'

How it is being reported

• Cabinet colleagues back embattled Treasurer Jim Chalmers over handling of economyJim Chalmers has recorded the lowest net approval rating in the Albanese cabinet, yet a minister insists the embattled Treasurer ‘deserves’ to keep his job.Perth Now · 3 Nov, 22:12
• Cabinet colleagues back embattled Treasurer Jim Chalmers over handling of economyJim Chalmers has recorded the lowest net approval rating in the Albanese cabinet, yet a minister insists the embattled Treasurer ‘deserves’ to keep his job.The West Australian · 3 Nov, 22:11

In this story: Jim Chalmers · Amanda Rishworth · Sylvia Jeffreys · Albanese government · Reserve Bank · Australia

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