Everything you need to know about the next Australian federal election

Australia is gearing up for its next federal election, which will be held on or before 27 September 2025. With a record-high pre-election enrolment rate, including a significant increase in young and Indigenous voters, this election is set to be one of the most widely participated in Australia’s history.

A massive 97.9% of eligible Australians are registered, surpassing the previous federal election’s record of 96.8%. This surge in voter engagement is the perfect opportunity to advocate for the changes you want to see, as more voices are ready to shape the country’s future.

So, what do you need to know about the next federal election? We’ve got you covered, from the roles of representatives and senators to the top issues shaping the election.

Key facts about the 2025 federal election

The next federal election will determine who forms the 48th Parliament of Australia. All 150 seats in the House of Representatives and 40 of the 76 seats in the Senate will be contested. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party will seek re-election for a second term, facing opposition from the Liberal-National Coalition led by Peter Dutton.

The Labor Party holds 78 seats in the House of Representatives, the Coalition 55, the Greens 4, and Independents make up 12. In the Senate, Labor holds 25 seats, the Coalition 30, the Greens 11, One Nation 2, and other minor parties and Independents account for the remaining seats. The half Senate election process ensures that only half of the state senators are elected every three years, maintaining balanced representation in the parliamentary system.

Key dates and timings

The date of the next federal election is determined by the Governor-General, who acts on the government’s advice. Federal elections are mandated to occur at least once every three years, ensuring regular opportunities for Australians to elect members of Parliament.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) plays a pivotal role in organising and running federal elections. As the election approaches, the AEC releases a detailed timeline that includes crucial dates such as the election day itself, the closing date for postal vote applications, and the deadline for receiving ballot papers. This timeline helps voters stay informed and prepared.

On election day, polling stations across the country open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, providing ample opportunity for voters to cast their ballots. Once the polls close, the counting process begins immediately. Depending on the complexity of the count and the volume of votes, the results are typically announced on the night of the election or in the following days.

Commonwealth Electoral Act: The framework of federal elections

The Commonwealth Electoral Act outlines the laws for conducting federal elections in Australia. Managed by the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), this Act ensures elections are fair, secure, and free from manipulation. The Act governs everything from the timing of elections, the eligibility of voters and candidates, the voting process, to the declaration of results.

Electoral divisions and boundaries

Australia’s electoral landscape is divided into 151 divisions, each representing a unique country area. These divisions are crucial as they determine representation in the House of Representatives. The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is responsible for defining and reviewing these boundaries to ensure each division has roughly equal numbers of voters, reflecting changes in population and demographics.

The boundaries of electoral divisions are regularly reviewed and updated to maintain fairness and accuracy. This process ensures that each division is represented by a member of the House of Representatives, elected by the voters within that division. The names of these divisions often honour notable Australians or significant geographic features, adding a layer of cultural and historical significance to the electoral process.

How voting works in the House of Representatives: Preferential voting

The House of Representatives is elected using a preferential voting system. Each electorate across the country elects one representative, for a total of 150 electorates. On election day, voters receive ballot papers listing all candidates for their electorate. Voters must rank every candidate by preference, marking ‘1’ for their top choice, ‘2’ for their second, and so on.

To win a seat, a candidate must secure an absolute majority — over 50% of the votes. If no candidate achieves this outright, the one with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed based on voters’ second preferences. This process continues until a candidate secures an absolute majority.

How voting works in the Senate

Senators are elected using a single transferable vote system with proportional representation. Each state elects 12 senators, and each territory elects two senators, with half of the state seats and all territory seats up for election every three years. Territory senators are elected for three-year terms, often coinciding with the elections for the House of Representatives.

On Senate ballot papers, voters have two options:

• Above-the-line voting: Number at least six boxes for parties or groups of their choice.
• Below-the-line voting: Number at least 12 boxes for individual candidates of their choice.

To be elected, candidates must reach a quota of votes based on the proportion of the total number of votes in their state or territory. The process allows for a wider range of political parties and independents to be represented in the Senate.

Candidates and parties

Candidates and political parties are the lifeblood of the Australian federal election, offering voters a range of choices and policies. Candidates can be nominated by registered political parties or run as independents. To participate in the election, political parties must be registered with the AEC, ensuring they meet specific criteria and adhere to electoral laws.

Candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements, including being an Australian citizen and at least 18 years old. The AEC provides comprehensive information on candidates and parties, including their policies and preferences, helping voters make informed decisions. Voters have the option to vote for a candidate or party directly or to vote below the line, selecting their own preferences among individual candidates.

Voter registration and essential information

Australian citizens aged 18 and over can — and must — enrol and vote. The AEC has made the process of registering or confirming your enrolment simple through its online portal. For the next election, voters will have various ways to cast their votes:

• In-person voting: Takes place on election day at polling stations across Australia.
• Early voting: Available for those unable to vote on election day, either at designated polling stations or via postal vote applications.
• Postal voting: For those unable to make it to a polling station.

Voters must notify the AEC within eight weeks of a change of address. Additionally, 16 and 17-year-olds can pre-enrol to be eligible to vote upon turning 18.

Election integrity and security

The AEC is dedicated to maintaining a fair and transparent electoral process. To prevent electoral fraud, the AEC employs a range of measures, including the secure handling of ballot papers and a meticulous counting process.

The AEC also offers guidance on how to vote safely and securely, providing tips to avoid scams and misinformation. The Australian government has implemented additional measures to protect the election’s integrity, such as establishing a disinformation register to combat false information. The AEC collaborates closely with other agencies, including the Australian Federal Police, to ensure the security of the election, safeguarding the democratic process for all Australians.

Top election issues for Australian voters

The upcoming federal election is shaped by several pressing issues that matter to Australians:

Economy and cost of living

With inflation, rising interest rates, and mortgage stress on the minds of many Australians, household economics is a crucial issue. Families have experienced a decline in disposable incomes over the past two years, making policies that address economic stability and living costs highly relevant.

Housing crisis and affordability

Affordable housing is at the forefront of political debate. The Help to Buy scheme, aimed at assisting first-time homebuyers, has met opposition in the Senate. Additionally, debates around negative gearing and capital gains tax — policies that impact property investment — are being reviewed as potential solutions to the housing affordability crisis.

Climate and environment

Environmental policies and climate change action are pivotal issues, especially for Millennials and Gen Z, who make up 43% of the electorate. Many voters are increasingly driven by climate issues, seeking more robust policies for environmental protection and renewable energy.

Indigenous issues

With a record 92.9% of Indigenous Australians enrolled to vote, their voice is more powerful than ever. Issues around the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, land rights, and equality are expected to shape discussions and policy-making during the election campaign.

Healthcare and social welfare

Access to healthcare, Medicare, and welfare policies continue to be hot-button topics, as voters evaluate party platforms on healthcare reform, cost of living relief, and support for vulnerable populations.

Petitions highlighting election issues on Change.org

Voter concerns and advocacy are reflected in petitions currently gaining traction on Change.org. Here are some notable ones to explore and support if these are issues that are important to you.

Grant Humanitarian visas to Palestinians fleeing Gaza

With the ongoing crisis in Gaza, this petition demands the government provide humanitarian visas to Palestinians seeking refuge from conflict, shining a light on Australia’s role in international human rights.

Stop new taxes on general practice clinics

Healthcare affordability remains a priority, and this petition opposes new taxes on general practice clinics that could make healthcare less accessible to everyday Australians.

Make your voice heard in the Australian federal election

The upcoming federal election is an opportunity for all Australians to influence the country’s future. Whether you’re passionate about the economy, climate, housing, healthcare, or Indigenous rights, it’s vital to stay informed, get involved, and vote. Your voice matters, and so does your vote.

If you care deeply about a particular issue, starting or supporting a petition on Change.org can amplify your voice and rally others to your cause. Let’s make the most of this record-high voter enrolment and shape an Australia that reflects our collective values and aspirations.