Why the PM is being criticised about Bali Nine return

Drug advocates have blasted Mr Albanese for dedicating resources to the return of the five men, who by the PM’s own description committed a “serious” crime in their attempt to smuggle 8kg of heroin to Australia from Indonesia.

Anthony Albanese has given five families a Christmas they will never forget - the return of their beloved sons to Australia after almost two decades behind bars in Indonesia on drug smuggling charges.

But the warm fuzzy glow the Prime Minister might be feeling from what is unquestionably an impressive diplomatic coup, is unlikely to dramatically shift perceptions of his leadership back home.

Drug advocates have already criticised the Mr Albanese for dedicating resources to the return of the five men, who by the PM’s own description committed a “serious” crime in their attempt to smuggle 8kg of heroin to Australia from Indonesia.

Bali Nine members Scott Rush, Matthew Norman, Si-Yi Chen, Martin Stephens, and Michael Czugaj. Picture: Supplied

But it is a complex situation and there are also many Australians with the flipside view who believe almost two decades in prison for a crime that would have carried a far lesser sentence in their own country was sufficient punishment.

Either way the release of the men will not be front of mind among voters when they are sent to the ballot box some time in the new year.

When it comes to elections in Australia, international achievements almost never rate consideration, though perhaps in the case of Mr Albanese his Bali Nine negotiations at least are a demonstration of his ability to “walk” the diplomatic walk after all that talking time spent overseas this term.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the remaining members of the Bali Nine have returned home to Australia. Picture: ABC

But in the cold hard reality of domestic politics, it’s difficult not to picture this feel good boost souring as soon as a member of the Coalition responds to the issue with a question about the PM’s “priorities” and highlights the fact the extradition came at the expense of taxpayers.

This will likely appeal to many voters who consider any moment the government is not dedicated to tackling cost of living as a moment wasted.

The few thanks Mr Albanese will receive though will be deeply meant by those closest to the case.

Originally published as Why the PM is being criticised about Bali Nine return