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
ANU Reporter Deputy Editor
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
You may also like
Democracy Sausage: The face of election night
The ABC’s Chief Election Analyst Emeritus Antony Green joins Democracy Sausage to discuss a career spent covering elections.
Why the US strikes on Iran are illegal and can set a troubling precedent
The US has bombed Iranian nuclear facilities in what is being called 'self-defence'. But what does international law say? And how should Australia respond?
Democracy Sausage: Permanent unpredictability with Jim Chalmers
Treasurer Jim Chalmers joins Mark Kenny to talk our changing economic environment, productivity and ‘progressive patriotism’.