Scott Morrison declares victory in Australia election

The ruling Liberal-led conservative coalition appeared to secure a surprise win in the Australian federal election on Saturday after outperforming exit polls that predicted a victory for the opposition Labor Party.

While the Liberal-National Coalition won more seats in the House of Representatives than Labor, it was unclear whether they won an outright majority of 76 seats or if they will need to negotiate with the cross bench to form a minority government. 

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who had campaigned on providing tax cuts and the enduring resilience of Australia’s economy, claimed victory, saying: “I have always believed in miracles.” 

Morrison said his government worked for Australians who “work hard”, aim to start a family, buy a home and live well in retirement.

“It’s always been about them,” he said, adding: “This is the best country in the world in which to live.”

Shortly before Morrison’s victory speech, the opposition leader, Bill Shorten, conceded defeat saying it was “obvious that Labor will not be able to form the next government”. 

“In the national interest, a short while ago, I called Scott Morrison to congratulate him,” he said. 

Speaking in Melbourne, Shorten said he would not contest Labor’s next vote for party leader, and urged supporters to “carry on the fight”. 

Australia has had six changes of prime minister over the past 12 years – mostly the result of internal party fights. Shorten had sold his party as a chance to escape the “chaos” of the ruling coalition and to create a fairer Australia.

John Howard, former prime minister, said Saturday’s results showed Australians had rejected Labor’s “envy-driven politics”.

The treasurer Josh Frydenberg said “the economic choice at this election was at the heart of the minds of Australian voters”.  Australia’s economy has consecutively grown for 28 years.

Source: Aljazeera