Australia in March 2026: the most important developments in politics
Australian politics in March 2026 was dominated by the war involving Iran and Australia's response to US requests. On 16 March Japan and Australia declined President Donald Trump's request to send ships to the Strait of Hormuz. On 20 March Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denied Trump's claim that he had asked Australia to join the war, saying 'He hasn't asked', and Australia urged restraint in a call with the United States. On 26 March Trump criticised allies for reluctance to support a possible war with Iran and named Australia. Opposition defence spokesman Andrew Hastie also criticised Trump's recent behaviour. Australia warned Israel on 25 March against any permanent occupation of southern Lebanon, and on 26 March announced a six-month entry ban for Iranian nationals holding visitor visas, citing concern that they might not leave when the visas expire.
The Labor Party won the South Australian state election on 21 March after a record number of early votes, while One Nation gained support. Commentary suggested Labor's second term at federal level could be harder than its first.
The EU relationship advanced. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Australia, and on 24 March the EU and Australia signed a free trade agreement and a new defence and security partnership, aimed at reducing reliance on China for critical minerals. The government also announced tougher laws against tobacco-related organised crime, targeting the illegal vape market.
by WorldBrief & Maksim Micheliov | AI-generated summary
Click a day in the chart above for that day's brief.