Australia federal election 2025 counting starts, Labour vs Liberal contest

Over 18.1 million Australians cast their votes on May 3 in the 2025 federal election that will determine whether Prime Minister Anthony Albanese secures a second term or if opposition leader Peter Dutton wins the race to the country's highest office. The counting of votes commenced at 6 pm (local time), with early indications suggesting a neck-and-neck battle.

Elections are driven by issues like escalating cost of living, housing affordability, and climate change. Additionally, international factors, such as trade tensions influenced by US policies, have added complexity to domestic concerns.

The Australian House of Representatives comprises 150 seats, with 76 required for a majority. Before the elections, Labor held 78 seats, the Coalition 57, and the remaining 15 were occupied by independents and minor parties, including the Greens and Teals.


Recent polls indicate a slight edge for Labor, with a two-party-preferred lead of 52.5% to the Coalition's 47.5%. However, both major parties have experienced a decline in their primary vote shares.

The election's outcome hinges on several marginal seats across the country, such as Banks and Bennelong are under scrutiny. Victoria's Dunkley and Menzies, Queensland's Bonner and Brisbane, and Western Australia's Bullwinkel and Perth are also crucial.

The Greens aim to expand their presence in the House of Representatives, targeting seats like Macnamara and Wills in Melbourne, and Richmond in northern New South Wales. Their campaign focuses on integrating dental care into Medicare, addressing the housing crisis, and implementing robust climate policies.

Similarly, Teal independents are vying to retain their strongholds in Sydney, while new candidates challenge traditional party dominance in other regions.

As vote counting progresses, the nation awaits clarity on its political future.