Sydney: Australians are voting in a pivotal general election that pits incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese against conservative challenger Peter Dutton. The campaign has focused heavily on energy policy, economic strategy, and foreign trade, highlighting stark differences in the two leaders’ visions for the nation.
Both candidates share working-class roots—Albanese was raised by a single mother in Sydney, while Dutton, a former police officer, hails from Brisbane. Their contrasting approaches to energy policy have drawn particular attention. Dutton wants to end Australia’s decades-old nuclear ban and build a domestic nuclear power industry, viewing it as essential for reliable emission reduction. Albanese, in contrast, has doubled down on renewable energy investments, positioning Australia as a global green energy leader.
Foreign policy tensions have also shaped the debate, especially after former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Australian goods. While Dutton had earlier praised Trump, both candidates have since taken tougher stances, vowing to defend Australia’s trade interests.
Meanwhile, growing support for climate-focused independents could disrupt the traditional two-party dominance, raising the possibility of a hung parliament. Labor had a slight polling lead ahead of the vote.
Australia enforces compulsory voting, with over 18 million registered voters and more than a third casting ballots early. Voting operates through preferential ballots in the House of Representatives, while Senate seats are filled via proportional representation. Turnout remains high, and the country continues its quirky election day tradition of fundraising sausage sizzles at polling booths.
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