Election Fever: Spending Promises, Debates, and Pancake Races

The Spending Spree Down Under

Election season in Australia is in full swing, and it's raining money! Politicians are channeling their inner Oprah, handing out promises like prize cars. From Medicare urgent-care clinics to F-35 fighter jets, the spending pledges are flying fast and furious as polling day approaches.

The latest headline-grabber? A $4.8 billion deal between the federal government and New South Wales to fully fund public schools by 2034. This follows a similar agreement with Victoria, leaving Queensland as the lone holdout.

This flurry of spending has fueled speculation that Treasurer Jim Chalmers may deliver an impromptu economic statement, shedding light on the impact of these generous pledges. The AFR suggests this statement could arrive as early as this week or early next.

Countdown to the Election

The election buzz is palpable. Leaders' debates are being scheduled, with agreements in place for appearances on the ABC, Sky News, Channel Nine, and Channel 7. It's a political showdown waiting to happen.

The whispers suggest Prime Minister Albanese might call the election for April 12th. But, Cyclone Alfred's impending arrival could throw a wrench in the works. The clock is ticking, and after this coming Monday, the Easter and ANZAC holidays narrow the available election dates.

Where's Peter?

While the PM grapples with the timing of the election, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton seems to be playing a game of "hide and seek" with his policies. He's pledged $3 billion for fighter jets, teased a cost-of-living policy "in due course," and vowed to mandate a five-day office week for public servants.

Dutton also distanced himself from Donald Trump's recent behavior, expressing disappointment in the scenes from the White House and emphasizing Australia’s support for Ukraine.

Meanwhile, in Olney...

It’s Shrove Tuesday, and the town of Olney in England, home to the world’s oldest pancake race (allegedly dating back to 1445!), added a new tradition: pancake stacking. Competitors were given 100 pancakes and 30 seconds to build the tallest tower they could manage.

Lucas Willmore took home the inaugural title — though the exact height of his pancake masterpiece remains a mystery.

Essential Poll and Public Opinion

A recent Essential poll revealed that over half of Australians believe the latest cash rate cut was insufficient and signals the failure of the Labor government’s economic strategy. However, voters still believe Albanese is more capable than Dutton in addressing cost-of-living concerns, raising wages, and protecting Medicare.

The Trump Factor

Anthony Albanese has reaffirmed Australia's support for Ukraine but remains silent on Donald Trump. This stance is increasingly difficult to maintain, as some argue supporting Ukraine inherently means opposing Trump's approach to the conflict.

"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has done the rest of the world an enormous favour by not merely showing how Donald Trump should be dealt with, but also by fully tearing the MAGA mask off the United States..." - Crikey