Will this be the cost-of-living election?
You have probably heard the term 'cost-of-living election'. An ANU expert explains what this means.
Article by:
Hannah Dixon
Contributing writer
Elections are often described using one defining issue. Dr Jill Sheppard from the ANU School of Politics and International Relations is confident that 2025 will be about cost of living.
“Once you start thinking about cost-of-living, it’s confirmed for you everywhere,” she says.
“Everything feels more expensive. And no matter how much data you get shown that tells you otherwise, it’s already in your brain and you can’t turn off that connection.”
So, will we keep hearing politicians talking about your rising grocery bills? And will it change the results at the ballot box?
Both major parties have a campaigning sweet spot that mean talking about cost-of-living works in their interest. After all, it’s the economy, stupid.
Top image: Cost-of-living pressures at the grocery till may influence this election. Photo: Pormezz/stock.adobe
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