Voters can enrol or check their details by visiting the AEC website. Photo: AEC
Australians will head to the polls for a federal election on May 3 after the federal government entered caretaker mode today (Friday).
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the date after a visit to Governor-General Sam Mostyn in Canberra today (Friday).
He told Triple M radio in Hobart yesterday (Thursday) that there was a desire to get the election out of the way.
“I think that Australians want to get on with it. Certainly, my Caucus colleagues do,” he said.
Media reports say opinion polls are predicting a slim margin between Labor and the Coalition and a possibility that either party may have to work with independent MPs or minor parties to form the next government.
The campaign is expected to be dominated by cost-of-living issues.
The election call came in the same week the Federal Budget was handed down and after Opposition Leader Peter Dutton gave his reply.
SOME REACTIONS
- The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) is urging all parties and candidates to address cost-of-living, rising inequality, climate change, and not stoke fear. “Some voters have experienced a historic fall in their living standards, and many are feeling afraid – they’re scared they won’t be able to keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table and cover the cost of basic essentials.” ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie.
- At a public forum in WA, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and other health bodies says climate action is needed to protect Australians. “Climate change is not just a hypothetical concept. The world is already feeling the effects of climate change and we are paying the price with our health and homes.”RACGP President Dr Michael Wright.
- Anti-slavery charity International Justice Mission Australia has called on all politicians to act against modern slavery and human trafficking. “In challenging economic and geopolitical times, Australia must stand firm as a leader in our region committed to supporting our neighbours to protect people in poverty from violence,” IJM Australia CEO David Braga.
NEED TO KNOW
Voting is compulsory for Australian citizens 18 and over. If you’re enrolled and don’t vote, you may be fined by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC).
Early voting booths usually open two weeks before election day.
To enrol, visit www.aec.gov.au/enrol/
For more details, visit the AEC website or call 13 23 26 within Australia or +61 2 6160 2600 from overseas.
