Candidates for Australian PM Campaign in Northern Regions Four Weeks Before Election
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Synopsis
Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has announced additional support for regions affected by severe flooding in the northeast. The announcement comes as candidates ramp up their campaigns with just four weeks left until the general election on May 3.
Key Takeaways
- Albanese announces $105 million for flood recovery.
- Flooding deemed worst since 1974 with significant livestock losses.
- Opposition leader Dutton pledges $10 million for weather radar.
- Four weeks remain until election day on May 3.
- Mandatory voting for all Australians aged 18 and older.
Sydney, April 5 (NationPress) Australia's Prime Minister has unveiled further assistance for communities impacted by devastating flooding in the northeastern parts of the country.
Anthony Albanese dedicated the eighth day of his election campaign to exploring a vast stretch of the outback in the western Queensland region, which has been severely affected by flooding since late March.
The flooding in this low-population area, known for its significant livestock farming, is deemed the worst since 1974, leading to extensive damage and an estimated loss of over 140,000 livestock, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
On Saturday, Albanese announced 105 million Australian dollars (approximately $63.4 million) in funding aimed at rebuilding fencing to safeguard livestock from feral pigs and dogs. The state government had previously released disaster assistance grants of up to 75,000 Australian dollars (around $45,314) for impacted primary producers in the area.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton, who is also the alternative prime minister, visited the region earlier in the campaign and pledged 10 million Australian dollars (about $6.04 million) for a new weather radar—a commitment that was matched by Albanese.
When asked why he chose to visit this historically Coalition-dominant region if it doesn't benefit him politically, Albanese stated he aims to be a prime minister for all Australians.
"I have a message for Queenslanders: We stand with you. We will provide any support required," he declared.
Dutton also somewhat retracted the Coalition's proposal to eliminate work-from-home options for federal public employees, clarifying that it would only affect those located in Canberra. Additionally, the Coalition intends to reduce 41,000 public service jobs to lower government spending.
This Saturday marks four weeks until the election day on May 3, and just 17 days until early voting centers open nationwide on April 22.
Voting is mandatory for all Australians aged 18 and older, and early voting centers provide an essential option to avoid long lines on election day.
This approach has become increasingly favored in recent elections.
According to the Australian Electoral Commission, 8.41 million people participated in early voting during the 2022 general election, either in person or via mail, accounting for 47.7 percent of the 17.6 million enrolled voters at that time.
