• Counting is underway in the Australian federal election, with cost-of-living and housing affordability being key voter concerns.
• Early reports suggest a close contest between incumbent PM Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton, with potential for a hung parliament.
• The influence of American politics, particularly the Trump administration, and international relations with China are also significant factors in the election.

Australia held its federal election in 2025, with approximately 18 million people voting to choose their next prime minister. The main contenders are the incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of the Labor Party, seeking a second term, and opposition leader Peter Dutton of the Liberal-National coalition. Key issues include the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and healthcare. The outcome could significantly impact Australia's domestic policies and its approach to international relations, particularly with the US and China.

• What: The 2025 Australian federal election to determine the next Prime Minister and government.
• Who: Key figures include incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (Labor Party), opposition leader Peter Dutton (Liberal-National coalition), Adam Bandt (Greens leader), and various independent candidates. Key organizations are the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) and major media outlets providing coverage.
• When: Polling took place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, with counting commencing immediately after polls closed in each state and territory. Official results may take days or weeks.
• Where: The election is nationwide across Australia's states and territories.

The 2025 Australian federal election is being heavily influenced by domestic economic concerns, particularly the rising cost of living and housing affordability. Voters are also weighing the implications of a second Trump administration in the US and the complex relationship between Australia, the US, and China. The close contest suggests a potentially volatile political landscape, with minor parties and independent candidates potentially playing a kingmaker role in the event of a hung parliament. The election outcome will likely shape Australia's economic and foreign policies for the coming years.

"It's a really important day for the country, and I'm really looking forward to Peter Dutton being a prime minister to get the country back on track."

"We need someone strong that can [communicate] and achieve the best outcome for us Australians. I think they have a stronger feel on the economy as a whole."

"Everything costs so much. I feel like a new leader would be beneficial for us."

"It’s now up to the people. We will wait and see what the outcome is. We should be proud we live in a vibrant democracy and everyone gets one vote, one value."

As the vote counting progresses in the 2025 Australian federal election, the nation faces a period of potential political instability and policy uncertainty. The closeness of the race, driven by anxieties over the cost of living, has raised the distinct possibility of a hung parliament. This outcome would force both major parties to negotiate with minor parties and independents to secure a workable coalition, potentially amplifying the influence of groups like the Greens and the Teals. These negotiations could lead to significant policy shifts, particularly in areas like climate change, housing affordability, and social services. Beyond domestic concerns, the election's outcome will also shape Australia's approach to complex international relations. The ongoing tensions between the US and China, especially concerning trade and security in the Indo-Pacific, add a layer of complexity, potentially straining Australia's economic ties with China and its security alliance with the US. Furthermore, the rise of populist movements and a potential shift in US foreign policy under a new Trump administration could further destabilize the existing geopolitical landscape, requiring careful navigation by Australia's next government. Ultimately, the 2025 election represents a pivotal moment that will determine not only the immediate course of Australian politics but also the nation's long-term strategic direction in an increasingly uncertain world.