Canberra: Australia's general elections are scheduled for May 3. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (62) met with Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Friday morning to seek approval for the elections. Later, he announced the decision to the media, promising to continue efforts to reduce the cost of living for the people. He warned that if his opponent, Peter Dutton (54), is elected, the country would regress. “For years, the world has criticized Australia. We cannot control the challenges we face in uncertain times, but we can control how we respond. Our government has tackled numerous international challenges. We remain committed to the welfare of the people and will continue working for a better future,” he said. Albanese's center-left Labor Party came to power in May 2022 after defeating the Conservative Party, which had ruled for a decade. Before that, Australia saw six prime ministers change in just eight years. Albanese has been in power for a longer period, but public dissatisfaction with his governance has been growing.
Struggles with Problems
The Australian Parliament consists of 150 seats, with 76 needed to form a government. Politics in Australia has long been dominated by the left-leaning Labor Party and the conservative Liberal-National Coalition. The main contenders in this election are Albanese and Liberal Party leader Dutton, along with several independent candidates. Key election issues include the cost of living, economic instability, and China’s influence. The public is struggling with a shortage of affordable housing and high-interest rates. Inflation remains a concern, and tax cuts or subsidies for rent and electricity bills have largely been limited to announcements.
Concerns Over Immigration and Crime
Record-high immigration levels and rising crime rates have also become major concerns. Voters are looking for solutions to these issues as they prepare to cast their votes in May.
