The year 2025 proved to be another period of intense turbulence and dramatic moments in Australian politics. A federal election, significant leadership changes, and a series of striking political stunts combined to create a memorable and often contentious political landscape, all captured through the lenses of the nation's press photographers.
A Nation Goes to the Polls
The centrepiece of the political year was the 2025 federal election campaign, a hard-fought battle that stretched over weeks. Images from the trail show Prime Minister Anthony Albanese connecting with voters, such as holding a dog during a visit to Sunnybank Market Square in the electorate of Moreton on day 32 of the campaign. In contrast, then Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was pictured at a press conference in Darwin on day eight of his campaign, setting the tone for a competitive race.
The election culminated in a re-elected Labor government, with Albanese sworn in alongside cabinet ministers by Governor General Sam Mostyn at Government House—a ceremony commemorated with a group selfie. However, the election also brought significant losses, most notably for the Greens as former leader Adam Bandt was pictured speaking to media after losing his seat of Melbourne.
Stunts, Symbols and Senate Scenes
Beyond the ballot box, the year was marked by symbolic gestures and theatrical moments within Parliament's halls. Nationals senator Matt Canavan channelled an American internet meme, setting up a 'change my mind' table outside Parliament House in Canberra. In the Senate chamber, Pauline Hanson of One Nation wore a burqa, while independent senator Lidia Thorpe moved a motion on Indigenous deaths in custody.
The theatre of question time provided its own visuals, from Coalition members using their phone torches after a lights-out incident to the social services minister, Tanya Plibersek, running for a division. A striking double exposure image from February captured Albanese and Dutton facing off during one such session, visually representing the clash of ideologies.
New Faces and International Engagements
The year also saw the arrival of new figures and the continuation of international diplomacy. Newly elected member for Dickson, Labor's Ali France, celebrated with union members, while a new Victorian opposition leader, Jess Wilson, shook hands with Premier Jacinta Allan. On the world stage, Foreign Minister Penny Wong met with the British Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, ahead of the Australia-UK ministerial meeting (Aukmin) in Sydney.
From the solemnity of a swearing-in ceremony to the absurdity of a necklace made from Minties wrappers during Senate question time, the photographic record of 2025 paints a comprehensive picture of Australian political life—a blend of high stakes, human moments, and calculated publicity.
