Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ruled out holding a federal election in April, citing the need to focus on Australians affected by Cyclone Alfred. The announcement confirms that the government’s planned March 25 budget will proceed, pushing the election timeline to May.
With electoral laws requiring a minimum 33-day campaign, Mr Albanese would have needed to call the election by Monday for an April 12 polling day. Instead, he has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering the budget before Australians cast their votes.
Election Delay Follows Severe Weather Concerns
Mr Albanese’s decision comes as Cyclone Alfred approaches Australia’s east coast, prompting emergency responses and concerns over public safety. Speaking to ABC’s 7.30 programme, the prime minister stated, “I have no intention of doing anything that distracts from what we need to do. This is not a time for looking at politics.”
The decision to delay the election contrasts with earlier speculation that Labor would capitalise on momentum from a likely state election victory in Western Australia. However, senior government sources told the ABC that the cyclone had “thrown plans into disarray”, making an April election impractical.
According to the Australian Electoral Commission, the latest possible date for the election is May 17. By delaying the announcement, the government avoids overlapping the campaign with Easter, Anzac Day, and school holidays, all of which could affect voter turnout and engagement.
Federal Budget Remains on Track for March 25
With the April election ruled out, preparations for the federal budget are moving forward. According to Treasurer Jim Chalmers, the government had considered delivering a mini-budget during the campaign but will now focus on a full budget instead.
Mr Albanese confirmed that the budget will be delivered as planned, stating, “I have very clearly said … that we’d produce a budget on March 25 and that certainly is my clear intention, and it has been,”
Both Labor and the Coalition had prepared campaign operations in anticipation of an early election, with Labor’s headquarters in Surry Hills and the Coalition’s in Parramatta already set up. The shift in timing will now require parties to adjust their strategies ahead of the formal campaign period.
