Millions of Australians began voting today in national elections that pits Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull against Labor opposition leader Bill Shorten who is vying to become the country’s fifth premier in three years, with opinion polls predicting a close race.
Over 15 million voters are expected to exercise their franchise to decide the fate of over 1,600 candidates, including five of Indian-origin, contesting from over 55 political parities.
The polls will elect all 226 members including 150 members for the lower house of the 45th Parliament after an eight-week official campaign period following the double dissolution announced by Prime Minister Turnbull in April.
In the 150-seat House of Representatives, Labor currently holds 55 seats, the coalition 90 and five seats are held by minor parties or independents.