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Australian Election 2025: Campaign Updates
Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the Australian election 2025. In today’s news, Albanese addresses security screening concerns, the Greens propose lowering the retirement age, and Dutton emphasizes national unity under “one flag.” Follow along for real-time updates on policy announcements, campaign trails, and key debates.
Albanese Responds to Security Screening Concerns
Albanese refuted the opposition’s suggestion to re-screen individuals who have sought refuge in Australia from Gaza, labeling it as a divisive tactic.
When questioned about the proposal’s validity, the Prime Minister stated:
Everyone here has undergone screening… Let’s be clear about these suggestions, made repeatedly by the Coalition, which aim to promote division in Australian society and debate. They simply don’t hold water.
Updated at 19.50 EDT
Albanese Reaffirms Housing Tax Policy
Albanese also affirmed that there would be no modifications to negative gearing and capital gains tax in the future.
In response to a question regarding potential changes to housing tax incentives, the Prime Minister stated:
I’ve been asked about this extensively, and my answer remains consistent… Our actions speak louder than words. We haven’t made any changes. The key to housing policy is supply—more and more supply. That’s why we have a plan to increase it.
When directly asked if he ruled out future changes, Albanese responded:
I’ve addressed this numerous times. The answer will remain the same tomorrow.
Albanese Pledges Investment in Second Language Education
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking from Chisholm, Victoria, highlighted his government’s $25 million commitment to promoting second language learning among Australian students:
Australians overwhelmingly coexist with diverse backgrounds, faiths, origins, and cultures, enriching our nation. This presents a significant opportunity… Language skills facilitate economic interaction, providing tangible benefits for jobs and cultural enrichment.
Albanese stated this investment would assist 90,000 students in learning and maintaining 84 languages, with a particular focus on neighboring Asian countries.
Dutton Advocates for Unity Under “One Flag”
In Cairns, opposition leader Peter Dutton addressed questions regarding the display of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags at official events, in light of disruptions during Welcome to Country ceremonies on ANZAC Day.
Dutton asserted that his policy as Prime Minister would be to “stand behind one flag… because I want our country to be united under one flag.”
[ANZAC Day] is not a venue for political statements, but a place for respect. I commend nearly all Australians at yesterday’s ceremonies but condemn the disruptive actions.
Regarding Welcome to Country, organizers may decide to include it, and that decision should be respected.
My policy, as Prime Minister, is to unite our country under one flag. We are all equal Australians, regardless of background, and we can respect the Indigenous and Torres Strait Island flags while uniting under one national flag. This approach, common in comparable countries, will help close the gap.
Updated at 19.21 EDT
Dutton Promises Defence Spending Increase
Dutton pledged an additional $21 billion for defence this week, citing an “uncertain world” on Weekend Today.
This $21 billion increase over five years will enhance our capabilities and support our service members. Considering global uncertainties in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, it’s crucial to have a strong Prime Minister focused on national security.
However, when questioned about the funding source for this $21 billion pledge, he did not provide a specific answer:
This will be implemented over five years, reaching 2.5% of GDP in year five. We will re-evaluate Labor’s existing spending programs to re-prioritise investment into defence.
Updated at 19.20 EDT
Dutton Aims to Sway Undecided Voters
Opposition leader Peter Dutton spoke on Weekend Today regarding his federal election campaign. He was asked, “Have you run out of time to turn it around?” and responded:
Millions of Australians are still undecided. The next week will allow them to consider another three years under Labor…
Dutton then reiterated his campaign pledges, including fuel tax cuts, measures for home ownership and community safety.
The host challenged him, stating “But if polls are to be believed, none of that is sticking.”
Dutton insisted that “the race is on” and that a significant portion of voters remain undecided.
With approximately 30% of voters still undecided, the question is whether our country can afford an additional three years under Anthony Albanese.
Updated at 19.05 EDT
Greens Advocate for Lower Retirement Age and Increased Pension
In a new policy announcement, the Greens are proposing to lower the retirement age to 65 and increase the age pension to surpass the poverty line, aiming to tackle poverty amongst older Australians.
Party leader, Adam Bandt, made the announcement in Richmond, highlighting it as a prospective seat for the Greens during the election. The pension policy is slated for priority in the next parliamentary term.
The Greens stated:
Lowering the pension age from 67 to 65 would provide recipients with an average of $18,000 more per year, including those transitioning from JobSeeker.
Key Points of the Greens’ Proposal:
- Addresses poverty among older Australians
- Benefits older women disproportionately
- Reduces reliance on JobSeeker payments
Currently, 54,295 JobSeeker recipients are over 65. Since 2017, the proportion of people older than 65 receiving JobSeeker, DSP, or carer payments has doubled.
Bandt commented, “In a wealthy country like ours, no one should retire into poverty… Older Australians face a poverty crisis, particularly older women, who are increasingly at risk of homelessness.”
Mandy Nolan, the Greens candidate for Richmond, noted that her area has amongst the most expensive housing and rental costs in Australia. “Yet the pension has remained below the poverty line. In a wealthy country, housing stress and homelessness should not be an issue for our elders,” she said.
Rafqa Touma will continue providing live news updates throughout the day.