Australians are voting in a federal election that could result in another minority government, as the ruling center-left Labor Party faces a stiff challenge from the center-right Liberal-National Coalition.

Polling stations opened at 8am local time (2200 GMT Friday) and will close at 6pm (0800 GMT). Over 18 million Australians are registered to vote under the country’s mandatory voting system.

Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton have already cast their ballots, according to ABC News.

The Australian Electoral Commission said that 4.8 million people voted early by Thursday. Vote counting will begin immediately after polls close, but final results—especially in tight races—may not be available on election night. Postal ballots will be counted in the days ahead.

Labor, led by Albanese, is seeking a second term after narrowly winning in 2022. Dutton’s Coalition is hoping to regain power and reverse recent electoral setbacks.

With 76 seats needed for a majority in the 150-member House of Representatives, a hung parliament remains a possibility. Half the Senate’s 76 seats are also being contested.

The campaign has largely focused on economic challenges, including inflation, housing affordability, and the rising cost of living.

Political analyst Nathan Fioritti noted both major parties have struggled to present compelling solutions. “Support may shift to smaller parties like the Greens, who offer more transformative platforms,” he said.

Independents and minor parties, particularly the Greens and climate-focused “Teal” candidates, may again play a decisive role, as they did in 2022.

Activist movements like the Muslim Vote are also active in key marginal seats, with Australia’s stance on the Gaza conflict influencing some voters.

While foreign policy remains in the background, analysts say Australia’s strategic alignment with the US is expected to remain steady, regardless of the election outcome.

Source: Online 

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