The circumstances of the present election are historically remarkable: a viceregal recalling of parliament, a Dissolution of both Houses, two un-tested party leaders, and the longest campaign in Australian history. The Prime minister’s manoeuvring has been lauded by many as a tactical coup – but it is strategically wise? In the modern age of hyper-mediated politics, all election campaigns are fraught with unexpected risks. But given the extraordinary circumstances of the current campaign, the next seven weeks are likely to produce one of the most interesting electoral campaigns in Australian political history.
So with weight of being a part of this epic event, what do all those dates and averages of campaign trails actually mean for the current election? In many ways, the practicalities of a long election campaign endanger the Government and favour the Labour Opposition. Nevertheless, a Coalition victory remains the more likely outcome. Despite the tumult of the recent years, every Federal Government since the Labour Government of 1929-32 has achieved at least a second term. And with the leading betting agencies giving the Coalition a solid $1.30 for the win and their Labor underdogs a handsome $3.50 the likelihood of a re-elected Turnbull Government seems a given.
But however you vote, take pride in knowing you are taking part in a history making day.
