By The Business Today News Desk
Australians head to the polls today in an election defined by sharp concerns over living costs, housing affordability, and economic uncertainty—issues that could see young voters tip the balance of power.
With nearly half of the 18 million enrolled voters under the age of 45, this election marks a generational shift. For the first time, younger Australians outnumber Baby Boomers at the ballot box, giving them unprecedented influence in shaping the nation’s political future.
While housing, employment, climate policy and inequality remain front of mind for the broader electorate, these issues take on even greater urgency among younger Australians. Rising rents, stagnant wages, and barriers to home ownership have created a generation that is increasingly sceptical of the status quo.
Disenchantment with the traditional two-party system is also at a high. According to political consultancy Redbridge Group, first-time voters are the most likely demographic to abandon major parties altogether—opting instead for minor parties and independents who promise real disruption.
“Young voters are sending a message,” Redbridge wrote in The Australian Financial Review. “They’re no longer willing to accept political solutions that don’t reflect the scale of the challenges they face.”
Professor Lucas Walsh, a youth policy expert, adds that many young Australians are not just questioning politicians—but the very system itself. “Their votes might not only be about choosing a candidate or party,” he explains. “It might be democracy itself that is being questioned.”
With early results expected later tonight, all eyes will be on how Australia’s youngest and most economically strained voters wield their power—and whether this election marks a turning point in the country’s political landscape.
