Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revelled in his “very warm and positive” call with US President Donald Trump as the jockeying begins for positions in his future cabinet.

In a significant diplomatic moment, newly elected Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese received a congratulatory phone call from US President Donald Trump, marking a new chapter in Australia-US relations. The conversation was characterized as 'warm and positive', where Trump expressed his desire to collaborate with Albanese in the future. During the call, they discussed tariffs and the AUKUS agreement, notably leaving deeper specifics for future discussions. This interaction highlights the importance of the US in the geopolitical landscape of Australia, especially considering the region's increasing tension with China. Albanese's upcoming meeting with Trump, potentially at the G7 summit, signals his administration's ambition to solidify bilateral ties, especially in the wake of changing global dynamics. Trump's remarks on Albanese, painting him as a 'winner', reflect a sharp contrast to the previous Australian leadership, which seemed to attempt a 'Trump-lite' persona. This ironic twist underscores the ideological narratives prevalent in Australian politics. Furthermore, the tariff discussions have immediate ramifications on Australia's film industry, with Trump announcing a 100% tariff on foreign films, which could potentially cripple local productions. Artistic Minister Tony Burke's immediate intention to fight for the Australian screen industry's rights demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguard national interests amidst pressures from the US administration. On a domestic political front, Albanese's administration faces its own internal dynamics as Labor's factions prepare for cabinet appointments, a task made easier by his election victory's substantial mandate. Albanese has assured continuity among key ministerial positions, signaling a stable transition. However, tensions regarding cabinet appointments, particularly concerning the Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, indicate persistent factional frictions that could complicate future governance. Meanwhile, former Liberal senator Hollie Hughes’ critique of her party's leadership and economic strategy adds to the narrative of upheaval within Australia's political landscape, drawing attention to the Liberal Party’s need to reassess its leadership dynamics. In conclusion, Albanese's initial interactions on the international stage and domestic maneuvering reflect not just a focus on global cooperation but also an internal commitment to reshaping Labor's future in the Australian political landscape. His administration's success in addressing both foreign and local challenges will be crucial in the upcoming term.