Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially announced that the 2025 Federal Election will be held on May 3, following previous delays caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Here’s what Australian voters need to know.
If you are an Australian citizen aged 18 or older, participation in this election is mandatory. Those who have recently turned 18, changed their address since the last federal election in 2022, or returned from living abroad must ensure they are enrolled to vote by 8pm on April 4, 2025. Failure to vote can result in a penalty of $20.
Early voting will be available for those unable to attend polling places on the election day. Voters can access early booths approximately two weeks prior to Election Day and are typically open daily, except on Sundays. Eligibility for early voting includes circumstances such as being away from your electorate, being more than 8 km from polling, or being unable to leave your workplace.
On Election Day, polling booths will be set up in local schools, community halls, and other public spaces. Voters will receive two ballot papers: the smaller is for the House of Representatives, while the larger one is for the Senate. To correctly fill out the House of Representatives ballot, voters must rank candidates in order of preference. For the Senate, voters can either select parties or groups above the line or individual candidates below the line.
The primary contenders for Prime Minister are Anthony Albanese from the Australian Labor Party (ALP) and Peter Dutton from the Coalition, which includes the Liberal and National parties. The ALP currently holds 77 seats, having secured a majority in the previous election, whereas the Coalition has 58 seats.
The election is significant as it marks the dissolution of the 47th Parliament, initiating a ‘caretaker mode’ for the Albanese government. This means major decisions cannot be made that would commit an incoming government, ensuring a smooth transition of power if there is a change in leadership. Caretaker mode also restricts significant appointments and contract negotiations until after the election.
The 2025 Federal Election presents a crucial opportunity for voters to influence the country’s direction. As the date approaches, citizens are encouraged to prepare and engage in the electoral process to ensure their voices are heard.