Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the election on Friday, March 28, after months of speculation.
In a statement on Friday morning, Mr Albanese made his pitch to voters for a second-term in office, citing his track record on cost-of-living issues.
“The world today is an uncertain place, but I am absolutely certain of this: now is not the time for cutting and wrecking, for aiming low, punching down or looking back,” he said.
“This is a time for building — building on our nation's strengths, building our security and prosperity for ourselves, building an Australia where no-one is held back and no-one is left behind.”
In response to the announcement, Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell said this election was critical to the country’s future.
“Groceries, energy bills, rent and mortgage repayments are through the roof,” he said.
“Regional communities have been left behind with cuts to funding and infrastructure spending.”
Mr Birrell said The Nationals planned to lower inflation by cutting red tape, stopping wasteful spending and halving the fuel excise tax immediately, among other policies.
Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley said a Coalition government would better manage the economy, rein in inflation and reduce energy bill prices.
“More broadly, our pledge to halve the fuel excise, get affordable gas supply back as part of the nation’s energy mix, support small business and target train your workers for tomorrow are really important to (Farrer).”
The Australian Electorial Commission has reminded Australians to enrol to vote or update their details before 8pm on Monday, April 7.
To enrol, update, or check your details, visit https://www.aec.gov.au/
― with AAP
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