Australians will head to the polls in five weeks, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese officially calling the 2025 federal election, kicking off a campaign that will see Labor fight to hold onto power and Peter Dutton’s Coalition chase a comeback.
Key Takeaways
- Albanese formally called the federal election for May 3, telling voters the choice before them is between Labor’s plan to “keep building” and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s promise to cut.
- Albanese said the election comes at a time of global instability and economic uncertainty, but insisted Australia is “turning the corner” thanks to the resilience shown by the public over the past three years.
- The Prime Minister attacked Dutton’s plan to slash over 40,000 public service jobs, pointing to the recent floods in Hervey Bay.
- The government officially entered caretaker mode after Albanese visited Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Friday morning before making the announcement to media outside Parliament House.
- Albanese confirmed ongoing diplomatic discussions with the Trump administration regarding tariffs, and reiterated Australia’s continued support for Ukraine.
Key Background
Albanese’s announcement outside Parliament House on Friday morning ends months of speculation about the timing of the next federal election. Labor heads into the campaign holding a narrow majority and facing mounting pressure over the cost-of-living crisis.
The campaign follows a turbulent three years marked by global conflict, economic strain, and natural disasters, including Cyclone Alfred, which delayed the original planned election date.
The contest is expected to be close, with the Coalition aiming to capitalise on voter frustration and Labor warning against deep public service cuts proposed by the opposition.
“Serving you as prime minister is the greatest honour of my life and what drives me each and every day is the determination to build a future worthy of the people of Australia,” Albanese said.
“The world today is an uncertain place but I am absolutely certain of this, now is not the time for cutting and wrecking and for aiming low, for punching down or for cutting back. This is a time for building.”
Crucial Quote
“Your vote has never been more important,” Albanese said. “This election is a choice between Labor’s plan to keep building—or Peter Dutton’s promise to cut.”
Big Number
5 – The number of weeks of official campaigning between now and election day on May 3.
