Summarised by Centrist
Australians head to the polls on May 3, with early voting already breaking records. More than 650,000 New Zealanders living in Australia could be directly or indirectly affected by the outcome.
For Kiwis in Australia’s rental market or trades sector, both platforms offer different forms of relief.
The cost of living is a major election issue. Labor is pitching energy bill relief, tax cuts for middle incomes, and rent assistance, while the Coalition is pledging mortgage interest deductions for first-home buyers, halved fuel excise, and a one-off tax refund.
Healthcare is another focus, particularly access to bulk billing. Labor is investing $8.5 billion to lift bulk billing rates, while the Coalition is matching that spend and adding extra mental health funding. Changes could expand free GP access for Kiwis, who often miss out without concession cards.
Energy and climate policies mark a sharp divide. Labor is sticking with renewables, targeting 82% renewable generation by 2030, while the Coalition proposes building nuclear power plants and expanding gas production. Both offer short-term household energy relief, but the long-term paths differ sharply.
On defence, Labor is investing in modernisation and maintaining strategic alliances like AUKUS, while the Coalition is promising even higher military spending and a larger fighter jet fleet. Shifts in Australia’s defence posture could affect New Zealand’s regional role, job markets, and future security partnerships.
