Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced plans to call a national election very soon, as the deadline for electing a new parliament approaches. Speaking on radio station Triple M, Albanese confirmed that the election will take place in May, stating, "I can guarantee that. And it will be called pretty imminently."
While he did not specify an exact date, reports suggest that Albanese is expected to visit Governor-General Sam Mostyn in Canberra on Friday to officially call the election. The Governor-General must authorize the dissolution of parliament for the election to proceed. Some sources indicate that the election could be held on May 3, although Albanese’s office has not confirmed this date.
Albanese emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying, "I’m not calling it today but I will call it soon. I think that Australians want to get on with it." His comments come as his Labor Party prepares for the upcoming vote amid rising living costs.
In preparation for the election, the Labor government has introduced new tax cuts, totaling 17.1 billion Australian dollars ($10.7 billion). These cuts include a 268-Australian-dollar ($170) reduction for average earners in the fiscal year ending June 2027, followed by a larger cut of 536 Australian dollars ($338) the next year. However, these cuts are significantly less than the 1,654-Australian-dollar ($1,044) relief provided in the current fiscal year.
On the opposing side, Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal-National coalition, has promised to cut the fuel excise tax by half if his party wins. He claims this move could save families with a single car about 750 Australian dollars ($473) over a year.
As Australia gears up for the election, both parties are making their final pitches to voters, hoping to address the pressing concerns of everyday Australians.