As Australians gear up for the federal election, early voting has commenced, allowing voters to cast their ballots ahead of the official election day on May 3, 2025. Early voting locations across the country opened their doors on April 22, 2025, and will remain operational until May 2, although they will be closed on Easter Monday, April 21, and Anzac Day, April 25. This year, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) reported a record 98.2% enrollment rate among eligible voters, with approximately 542,000 votes cast on the first day of early voting alone.
With the election looming, many voters are opting for early voting to avoid the long queues typically seen on election day. The AEC has noted that up to half of all voters may choose to vote before May 3. Early voting is available to those who meet specific criteria, including being away from their electorate on polling day, working during voting hours, or having legitimate safety concerns.
Key dates for the election include the issue of writs on March 31, the close of rolls on April 7, and the close of postal vote applications on April 30 at 6 PM. Election day itself will see polling places open from 8 AM to 6 PM, located in local schools, churches, and community halls.
In Melbourne, multiple early voting centres have been confirmed across various suburbs, including the Panarcadian Association in North Melbourne, the Brunswick Masonic Centre, and the Salvation Army Hall in Thornbury. Each location has varying opening hours, with most centers operating from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM during the early voting period.
The inner eastern suburbs will also see early voting at locations like 276 High Street in Kew and the Abbotsford Convent. In the inner west, voters can visit the Holy Family Parish in Maidstone or the Ascot Vale Uniting Church. Other suburbs across Melbourne's outer regions are similarly equipped with early voting centres, ensuring accessibility for all voters.
As the election approaches, the political landscape is heating up. Current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton are leading their respective parties into what is shaping up to be a closely contested election. Polls indicate that Labor is slightly ahead, with a recent Guardian Essential poll showing 32% of voters favoring Labor and 34% for the Coalition. However, when preferences are distributed, Labor is projected to secure 52.1% compared to the Coalition's 47.9%.
In the lead-up to the election, both parties are making their final pitches to voters. Albanese has emphasized his government's commitment to addressing cost-of-living issues and investing in public services, while Dutton has focused on promises to lower inflation and interest rates. The election coincides with significant events, such as the NRL Magic Round, prompting the AEC to encourage fans to vote early to avoid conflicts on game day.
For those who may have forgotten to update their details with the AEC, electoral laws allow for automatic updates based on information from other government agencies. This ensures that everyone eligible can participate in the electoral process.
As the campaign reaches its climax, the stakes are high for both major parties. Labor currently holds 78 seats in the House of Representatives, while the Coalition has 54. With the lower house returning to 150 members, a total of 76 seats will be required for a majority government. The election is expected to be pivotal, with various smaller parties, including the Greens and independents, vying for influence in a potentially hung parliament.
As Australians prepare to head to the polls, the excitement is palpable. The tradition of enjoying a democracy sausage at polling booths adds a unique flavor to the electoral experience. With the political landscape shifting, voters are reminded that their participation is crucial in shaping the future of the nation.
In summary, the 2025 federal election is set to be a significant event in Australian politics, with early voting providing a convenient option for voters. The high enrollment rate and the potential for a hung parliament underscore the importance of every vote. As election day approaches, Australians are encouraged to make their voices heard and participate in the democratic process.
