Federal election called, voters to head to polls on 3 May

Australians will head to the polling booths on 3 May after the Federal election was officially called on Friday 28 March. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

By Andrew Brown, AAP

Australians will head to the polls for a federal election on May 3.

After months of speculation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the election date following a visit to Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Friday morning.

A five-week campaign will count down to the poll for all 150 seats in the House of Representatives and 40 Senate places.

Mr Albanese is looking to become the first prime minister since John Howard to win back-to-back elections.

Peter Dutton will aim to lead the coalition back to power after one term in opposition, to become Australia’s 32nd prime minister.

Polls are predicting a tight contest between the major parties, with minority government looming as a likely outcome.