In pics | Australian PM Anthony Albanese calls for national election on May 3

Election Stakes: Economy in Focus Albanese, addressing the nation after triggering the election, framed the upcoming vote as a choice between stability and change. “Our government has chosen to face global challenges the Australian way—helping people under cost-of-living pressure, while building for the future,” he said. (Photo: Reuters)

Since taking office in 2022, Albanese’s government has introduced various cost-of-living relief measures, including tax cuts announced in Tuesday’s budget. However, economic pressures remain a dominant issue, with inflation hitting Australian households hard. (Photo: AP)

Despite these efforts, opinion polls suggest the election race will be tight, with Labor running neck-and-neck with the opposition Liberal-National coalition, led by Peter Dutton. (Photo: Reuters)

Australia’s Economic Landscape: Turning the Corner? One potential bright spot for Albanese is the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent rate cut in February, the first in over four years. This move signals that inflationary pressures may be easing, potentially strengthening Labor’s argument that the economy is on the mend. However, the opposition is expected to criticize the government’s economic handling, arguing that cost-of-living increases have worsened under Labor’s leadership. (Photo: Agencies)

What’s Next? With just five weeks until election day, the battle between Albanese and Dutton will likely center on economic management, inflation, and household affordability. As both parties prepare their campaigns, Australians face a crucial choice: stick with Labor’s approach or opt for a change in leadership. Will voters give Albanese another term, or will the coalition return to power? The countdown to May 3 has begun. (Photo: Reuters, AP)