Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has secured a landmark victory in Australia's general election, with media projections showing his centre-left Labor Party returning to power for a second consecutive term.
This marks the first time in over two decades that an Australian Prime Minister has achieved such a feat.
Early projections by the Australian Electoral Commission indicate that Labor is set to form government, either with a clear majority or with the support of independents and minor parties.
The latest figures show Labor securing 70 seats in the 150-member House of Representatives, with the possibility of reaching the 76 needed for a majority.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton of the Liberal-National Coalition conceded defeat, accepting responsibility for the result. "We didn’t do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious tonight, and I accept full responsibility for that," he said.
Dutton extended his congratulations to Albanese, acknowledging the historic nature of the victory.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was among the first world leaders to congratulate Albanese, expressing confidence in the continuing strength of India-Australia relations.
In a social media post, Modi praised the “resounding victory” and looked forward to deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
The campaign was dominated by debates on economic policy, inflation, and energy strategy. With the cost-of-living crisis a major concern for voters, both major parties pledged to tackle inflation.
The Coalition blamed government spending for rising prices and proposed significant cuts to the public sector, including plans to axe one in five public service jobs. Labor, on the other hand, criticised the opposition’s push for nuclear energy and emphasised its commitment to renewables.
Foreign policy and trade also played a role in the campaign. The Albanese government touted its success in stabilising relations with China, which led to the lifting of several trade restrictions that had previously cost Australian exporters billions.
Additionally, the influence of former US President Donald Trump’s trade policies and the international economic landscape drew global attention to the election.
This year’s vote also reflected a generational shift, with younger voters outnumbering Baby Boomers for the first time in Australian electoral history. Housing affordability and support for first-time buyers emerged as key campaign issues for this demographic.
Despite a challenging economic environment, Albanese’s re-election is seen as an endorsement of his government’s agenda, particularly on climate action, healthcare, and social equity.
As the final vote count continues, Australia awaits confirmation of whether Labor will govern alone or with the support of independents. Either way, Anthony Albanese is set to begin his second term with renewed political capital and a strengthened mandate.
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