Albanese backs Chalmers as treasurer despite leadership speculation
PM Albanese backed Treasurer Chalmers to stay in the role through the next election.
Albanese backed Treasurer Jim Chalmers this week as rumours swirl about his future. Asked if Chalmers should stay through the next election, Albanese praised his record.
Chalmers has delivered budget surpluses and lower deficits. Chalmers is also producing economic reform and working closely with Albanese.
The backing came as Chalmers faces public criticism. Unnamed colleagues appear to be leaking against him to the media.
Environment Minister Murray Watt confirmed there is leaking. He failed to deny it cleanly.
Cabinet Secretary Andrew Charlton, seen as a possible rival, dodged questions about his own plans. Charlton said he is focused on his current job.
Chalmers now faces harder economic challenges as the mid-year forecast comes.
- Chalmers produced them
- Budget surpluses
- Andrew Charlton, Cabinet Secretary
- Possible rival
- On Tuesday before leaving for Turkey
- PM announcement
Why it mattersThe treasurer's future affects who will steer Australia through coming economic pressures. Public backing from the PM can slow internal party speculation.
AustraliaAustralians watch whether their treasurer can focus on managing the economy amid internal government tension, and whether leadership instability in Canberra will affect policy.
