Australia’s May 21, 2022 federal election ended nine years of conservative Liberal-National Coalition rule, electing Labor’s Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister. The “climate election” saw record support for Greens and “teal independents” (moderate climate-focused candidates) defeating Liberals in wealthy suburbs—rejecting Scott Morrison’s coal advocacy and pandemic-era controversies.
The Morrison Government’s Record (2018-2022)
Scott Morrison (“ScoMo”) became PM in 2018 leadership coup. His tenure featured: bushfire crisis (vacationing in Hawaii while country burned, “I don’t hold a hose”), COVID lockdowns, submarine deal angering France, and “I’m a bit of a bulldozer” self-description amid workplace culture scandals.
Climate became defining issue: Australia as coal exporter faced pressure to act, Morrison resisted, facing international ridicule at COP26.
The Teal Wave
Wealthy Liberal strongholds turned against party over climate inaction. “Teal independents”—moderate on economy, progressive on climate/integrity—ran in six seats with Climate 200 funding (Simon Holmes à Court’s group raised $12M).
Teals won Wentworth, North Sydney, Mackellar, Goldstein, Kooyong (Treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s seat!), and Curtin. Their aqua-colored campaign materials gave name.
The Labor Victory
Labor won 77 seats (76 needed for majority), gaining 5.9% swing. Albanese’s modest campaign avoided big promises, focused on Morrison’s negatives. His slogan: “Australia deserves better.”
Greens won 4 seats (Brisbane first time), best result ever. The crossbench (Greens + teals + independents) held 16 seats—forcing Labor minority government.
The First Nations Voice Referendum Connection
Albanese pledged constitutional Voice to Parliament for Indigenous Australians (advisory body). The referendum became 2023’s major political event (ultimately defeated 60-40%).
The Climate Shift
New government passed 43% emissions cut by 2030 (up from Morrison’s 26-28%), ended decade of climate wars. But activists noted gap between rhetoric and reality (continued coal exports).
The Morrison Revelations
Post-election, scandals emerged: Morrison secretly appointed himself to five ministries during pandemic without informing colleagues—constitutional crisis prompting inquiry and reforms.
Global Context
The election joined trend of incumbent defeats post-COVID: Morrison (Australia), Johnson (UK), Biden midterms, Macron weakened. Pandemic governance fatigue punished leaders globally.
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