Australia's Federal Election Officially Set for May 3 as Cost-of-Living Takes Center Stage

Prime Minister Albanese calls the election after unveiling phased tax cuts, while Opposition Leader Dutton counters with fuel excise relief and energy reforms.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has formally set the federal election date for May 3, following a visit to the Governor-General to dissolve parliament.
Labor's $17.1 billion phased tax cuts, starting in 2026, contrast with the Coalition's immediate $6 billion fuel excise cut, aiming to provide household relief.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's budget reply also included a gas reservation scheme to secure domestic supply and a pledge to cut 41,000 public service jobs.
The Coalition has criticized Labor's tax cuts as insufficient and delayed, framing its fuel excise cut as a more immediate solution for cost-of-living pressures.
The election campaign will focus heavily on leadership and economic visions, with both parties vying for voter support in key suburban areas.