The Australian federal election has been called for 21st August 2010 and will see the new Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, seek the approval of Aussie voters for her leadership after the coup against former PM Kevin Rudd earlier this year.
Major issues will include promises over future mining taxes, the management of refugees and boat people, internet censorship and the Emissions Trading Scheme, which aims to set the price of carbon.
The two major parties in Australia are the Australian Labor Party and the Liberals, but the incumbent government was formed from a coalition with smaller political parties.
Prospective candidates have until 12 noon Thursday 29th July 2010 to be nominated. Nominations will be declared on Friday 30th July 2010.
The date for voter enrollment has now passed. Australians are required by law to enrol and vote in federal elections.