Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially called for a national election on May 3, 2025, marking the start of a five-week campaign expected to focus on economic concerns, cost-of-living issues, and housing shortages. The announcement follows a visit to the Governor-General, the formal step required to dissolve parliament and call for an election.

Albanese's center-left Labor Party won a majority in the 2022 election, but recent polls indicate a tight race between Labor and the opposition Liberal-National coalition led by Peter Dutton. Economic management, tax policies, and energy strategies are expected to dominate the campaign as both major parties seek to present solutions to the financial struggles faced by many Australians.

The Albanese government has introduced a series of measures in recent months, including tax cuts aimed at providing relief to working Australians and increased funding for the healthcare sector. The opposition has criticized the government’s handling of the economy and is proposing alternative policies, such as nuclear energy adoption and a gas reservation scheme.

The possibility of a hung parliament remains a key concern, with minor parties and independents likely to play a crucial role in government formation if neither major party secures a clear majority. The Greens have indicated that they may support a Labor minority government if certain policy demands, including environmental protections and expanded healthcare services, are met.

With economic challenges at the forefront, the upcoming election presents Australian voters with a critical choice on the direction of the country. Both major parties will now engage in an intense campaign to win public support in the weeks leading up to the vote.