Here's what you need to know:
- Malcolm Turnbull has been to Government House in Canberra to request a double dissolution election.
- The election will be held on July 2, 55 days away.
- PM says reestablishment of the Australian Building and Construction Commission will "restore the rule of law to the construction sector".
- Turnbull claims Labor's proposed changes to negative gearing "will deliver a massive shock to the property market".
- Says reelected Coalition government will maintain border protection policies. "Australians know that we will keep our borders secure."
- Labor need to secure an extra 21 seats to win government.
- Here's 21 Things That Will Definitely Happen During The Election Campaign ;-)
Here's the latest polling data:
Updates
"It is the most exciting time to be an Australian"
Malcolm Turnbull has presented himself as the leader best placed to take Australia into a prosperous future, saying that the Labor opposition's proposed changes to negative gearing "will deliver a massive shock to the property market".
The Prime Minister explained why he has called a double dissolution election for July 2 – his desire to reestablish a construction watchdog.
Malcolm Turnbull said that the reestablishment of the Australian Building and Construction Commission will "restore the rule of law to the construction sector".
"It is a vital economic reform and critical to our continued success."
"Every measure we have laid out, every single one, will deliver stronger economic growth and more jobs," said Mr Turnbull.
"Everything Labor is doing is absolutely calculated to stop our economic progress in its tracks. And that is why we are asking the Australian people for the privilege of governing this country for three more years to secure our prosperity, to secure our future. "
55 days of memes.
As we wait for Malcolm to officially call the election, please enjoy this meme for all Australians.
ICYM: Malcolm Turnbull, wife Lucy and grandson Jack had a very exciting morning in Sydney.
Canberrans grabbing their moment in the spotlight.
Whoever moonwalked across Dunrossil Dr today pls out yourself for a naming and shaming h/t @michael_abraham
Incredible scenes in Canberra.
The PM's drive to the the GG's house is really getting a bit crazy. #ausvotes #auspol #Election2016
There's never been a more exciting time to get into a car in the rain.
Literally tens of people there to greet the PM
The phoney election campaign is almost at an end.
Incredible scenes.