Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made history by becoming the first Australian leader in 21 years to secure a second consecutive three-year term.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton conceded defeat in Saturday’s federal election, acknowledging the Coalition’s underperformance. “We didn’t do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious tonight, and I accept full responsibility for that,” Dutton said. He also confirmed speaking with Albanese to offer his congratulations, calling it “an historic occasion for the Labor Party” and affirming the opposition’s recognition of the result.

Australians cast their votes on Saturday (May 3) in a federal election that was initially set for April 12 but postponed due to a cyclone. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rescheduled the vote, marking a delayed start to what became one of the quietest election campaigns in recent years.

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The 2025 federal campaign struggled for public attention, frequently overshadowed by major international developments such as US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff announcements and the death of the Pope. Long weekends and the Easter holidays further diverted focus, leading to low-key political discourse ahead of election day.

How Trump factor and cost-of-living shaped voter sentiment?

Voters were largely focused on domestic economic issues and the implications of volatile U.S. politics. Cost-of-living concerns, interest rate trends, and apprehensions about Trump’s foreign and trade policies significantly influenced voter sentiment.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers told ABC that the Labor Party had been struggling in late 2024 but gained momentum thanks to Albanese’s campaign, targeted economic policies, and a well-timed interest rate cut. He cited a growing “sense of the influence of American politics” as beneficial to Labor’s chances.

Liberal Party Senator James Paterson acknowledged that external events, particularly Trump’s rhetoric and tariffs, damaged the conservative campaign. “It was devastating in Canada for the conservatives… I think it has been a factor here,” he admitted.

(With Reuters inputs)