Tue Apr 22 05:03:45 UTC 2025: ## Australian Election Campaign Paused as Nation Mourns Pope Francis

**Melbourne, Australia –** Early voting commenced in Australia on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, for the upcoming May 3 general election. However, the campaign has been significantly subdued following the death of Pope Francis. Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton suspended campaign events to show respect.

Flags flew at half-mast across the country, reflecting the significant Catholic population (20% according to the 2021 census). While Prime Minister Albanese, though raised Catholic, opted for a secular affirmation during his 2022 swearing-in, he attended a Mass in Melbourne to honor the late Pope. He stated that his Catholicism is a personal part of him, preferring to keep his faith private.

Mr. Dutton, from a mixed-faith background, also expressed the need for reflection and a subdued political atmosphere. Both leaders plan to participate in a televised leaders’ debate later Tuesday, with a further debate scheduled for April 27.

The election is expected to be close, with the ruling Labor Party holding a narrow majority in the current parliament. The upcoming election will result in a reduction of seats in the House of Representatives from 151 to 150 due to redistribution. Both major parties anticipate a tight race. Early voting turnout is expected to be significant, with approximately half of all votes anticipated to be cast before election day. India has also announced three days of state mourning for the Pope.

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