Australian opposition leader, Peter Dutton aligns his personal story with Liberal values and promises to address the cost-of-living crisis as he launches his campaign ahead of the federal election.
According to 7 News, opposition Leader Peter Dutton has launched his federal election campaign with a passionate pledge to “restore the Australian dream,” while sharply criticizing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government as weak and disconnected from everyday Australians.
Speaking to supporters in the Labor-held marginal seat of Chisholm in Melbourne’s east, Mr. Dutton tied his outer-suburban, working-class upbringing and professional background as a small-business owner and former police officer to the Liberal Party’s core values.
“This election is our last chance to reverse the decline,” Mr. Dutton said, emphasizing the coalition’s commitment to addressing issues such as home ownership, government spending, and Medicare.
He blamed the nation’s housing crisis on migration mismanagement and vowed to curb government spending, while accusing Labor of acting “like an opposition while in government.”\
“Mr. Albanese prioritizes political victories over national victories,” he said. “While he talks about a ‘future war,’ I’m focused on securing our country’s future.”
The rally, held before more than 100 attendees—including Nationals leader David Littleproud, Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin, and federal Liberal heavyweights—marks the coalition’s first major event of the year.
Protesters outside the venue staged a symbolic demonstration, displaying a giant orange, three-eyed blow-up fish to critique the coalition’s support for nuclear energy. Meanwhile, chants for renewable energy action rang out as attendees entered.
Political analysts noted the unusual timing of the campaign launch in January, typically seen as too early to engage voters. Griffith University Associate Professor Paul Williams said Labor’s early campaign blitz signaled concern over potential seat losses.
“Labor appears fearful of significant damage and is moving aggressively to counteract it,” Prof. Williams said.
He also pointed out the coalition’s strategic shift in targeting key battlegrounds like Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne, rather than traditional strongholds.
Cost-of-living pressures are expected to dominate the election, with both major parties vying to connect with voters on “kitchen-table economics.”
“Material concerns—like mortgages, groceries, and utility bills—will shape this election,” Prof. Williams said.
Chisholm remains a critical seat for the coalition. Former MP Katie Allen, running for the Liberals, aims to reclaim the electorate, which has historically played a decisive role in federal outcomes since 2016.
With the election looming by May 17, the coalition is attempting to make history by unseating a first-term government—an achievement not seen in nearly a century.