With major issues such as economic recovery, climate change, healthcare, and social justice at the forefront, voters must carefully consider the policies of Australia’s major political players. This election is also marked by polarising debates over international issues, particularly the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, which has placed Australia’s foreign policy under increased scrutiny.
Federal and State Elections
Before heading to the polls, it’s important to understand the difference between federal and state elections, as well as the roles of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Each plays a distinct role in shaping the country’s governance.
A federal election occurs every three years, and is about choosing members for Australia’s national Parliament, which makes laws on issues affecting the entire country, such as healthcare, foreign policy, and national security. Voters elect representatives to the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives is the lower house, made up of 151 members who represent different areas across Australia. The party that secures the majority of seats forms the government, and its leader becomes the Prime Minister. This house debates and votes on bills that shape national policy, playing a key role in determining the country’s direction.
On the other hand, a state election focuses on local issues, electing members to state parliaments that govern areas like education, transport, and state healthcare. Each state or territory has its own government, and state elections decide who will lead them. While federal elections deal with the big national issues, state elections are concerned withregional matters that affect people’s everyday lives. The Senate, the upper house of Parliament, ensures equal representation for all states. It has 76 senators who review and vote on the laws passed by the House of Representatives. The Senate acts as a check on the power of the government, with the ability to delay or block legislation when necessary. Together, both houses—and both elections—play vital roles in shaping the laws that govern Australia.
The Major parties and Their Platforms
Australia’s political landscape is dominated by four key parties: the Australian Labor Party (ALP), the Liberal-National Coalition, and the Greens. Each party presents distinct policies for Australia’s future.
Australian Labor Party (ALP)
Currently in government under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Labor is positioned on the centre-left of the political spectrum. Traditionally supported by unions, the party prioritises workers' rights, affordable healthcare, education, and a strong social safety net for vulnerable Australians.
Labor’s 2025 commitments include:
Increasing bulk-billing rates to make healthcare more accessible.
Reducing university HECS debt by 20%.
Expanding childcare centres to ease the cost of living for families.
Liberal Party
In opposition under leader Peter Dutton, the Liberal Party alignswith the centre-right and advocates for free-market policies, individual freedoms, and limited government intervention in the economy. The party argues that reducing regulation will stimulate business growth and job creation.
The Liberals’ commitments for 2025 include:
Establishing nuclear power plants to diversify energy production.
Cutting 46,000 public service jobs and limiting remote working.
Reducing permanent migration by 25%.
The Nationals
The Nationals, in coalition with the Liberals, represent rural and regional Australia. Their focus is on agricultural policies, mining, and support for regional businesses. While aligned with the Liberals on many economic issues, the Nationals prioritise the needs of regional communities.
For 2025, the Nationals have pledged:
Continued support for the resources industry, including coal and gas.
Infrastructure development in rural areas to boost economic growth and regional resilience.
The Greens
The Greens are the most left-wing of the major parties and advocate for progressive policies on environmental sustainability, social justice, and wealth redistribution. The party has been vocal about issues such as climate change and income inequality.
In 2025, the Greens have committed to:
Bringing dental care into Medicare.
Freezing rent increases to address housing affordability.
Ending coal and gas extraction in Australia and shifting towards renewable energy.
The Rise of Minor Parties and Independents
While the major parties still dominate the political conversation, the 2025 election is likely to be shaped by a growing number of independents and minor parties. These candidates reflect growing public frustration with the traditional political system and are advocating for reforms across a wide range of issues, including healthcare and climate action.
The rising influence of minor parties signals a potential shift away from Australia's traditional two-party system. In this changing political landscape, every vote—whether for a major party, a minor party, or an independent—carries greater weight.
Australia’s Geopolitical stance
Beyond domestic issues, Australia’s foreign policy is also under increasing scrutiny, particularly regarding its stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Recently, debates have arisen surrounding Israel's apartheid towards Palestinians, being levied against the Israeli state. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has weighed in on the matter, clarifying legal positions on the situation and reinforcing global concerns about human rights.
Australia’s response to this issue has been a source of tension in domestic politics. The major parties are divided on how best to engage with the Israel-Palestine conflict. While the Liberal Party has maintained a traditionally strong alliance with Israel, the ALP has faced internal divisions on the matter, with some factions calling for a more balanced approach that recognises Palestinian rights. The Greens, for their part, have consistently supported Palestinian sovereignty and criticised Israel’s policies.
The way international human rights issues are handled is shaping how voters perceive Australia’s global role and ethical responsibility. As the 2025 election approaches, each party’s stance on these divisive issues will likely influence the votes of many Australians, especially those focused on the country's international reputation and commitment to human rights.
Why Your Vote Matters
The 2025 federal election is a pivotal moment for Australia. With national and international issues at stake, the choices voters make will impact not only the direction of domestic policies but also how Australia engages with the rest of the world. From economic and social reforms to global human rights, the policies set forth by the winning party will define the nation’s path for years to come.
In a landscape marked by rising political discontent, voters are looking for leaders who will stand firm on issues that matter most. Whether it’s securing the future of the country’s social services, advancing climate policies, or redefining Australia’s role on the global stage, the 2025 election is one where every vote counts. As the debate over Palestine and Israel continues to divide opinions, this election provides an opportunity for Australians to not only address local issues, but also make a clear statement about the country’s position geopolitically.
If you are 18 or older, and have not yet enrolled to vote, you can do so here. Every vote counts. See you at the polls!