Australia’s Albanese Calls Federal Election for May 3 in Tight Race

The election launches with cost-of-living, housing, and energy policy as dominant themes, with polls predicting a close contest and potential hung parliament.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the federal election date of May 3, seeking a second term for his Labor government.
Cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability, and energy policy are central issues as both major parties court voters in key marginal seats.
Labor focuses on renewable energy, tax cuts, and healthcare, while the Coalition emphasizes nuclear energy, immigration cuts, and fuel excise reductions.
Polls indicate a tight race between Labor and the Liberal-National Coalition, with a significant possibility of a hung parliament involving independents and minor parties.
Peter Dutton positions himself as the underdog, emphasizing economic management and housing solutions, while Albanese highlights his incumbency and recent tax relief measures.