Federal election campaigns came to a sudden standstill across Australia on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, as political leaders suspended all scheduled events in a rare bipartisan show of respect following the passing of Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church and a global icon of humility and justice.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the nation in mourning by attending a special morning mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne. A lifelong Catholic, Albanese described the late pontiff as “one of the most significant holy fathers in modern times,” citing his unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized as “a legacy the world must not forget.”
Opposition leader Peter Dutton canceled his campaign appearances and refrained from political messaging throughout the day, stating that “today is not the day for big politicking,” according to a report by ABC News. Despite the pause in field activities, both leaders agreed to proceed with the televised third leaders’ debate later Tuesday evening as previously scheduled.
Electioneering had been in full swing ahead of the May 3 early voting opening, but Pope Francis’ death forced parties to temporarily shelve rallies, advertisements, and grassroots mobilizations out of respect. It marks a rare moment of national unity as leaders across ideological divides joined millions globally in mourning.
The Australian government ordered flags on all Commonwealth buildings to fly at half-mast on Tuesday, describing the Pope as “a moral compass” who spoke truth to power on climate change, refugee rights, and economic inequality. Political analysts say the pause may also allow voters a brief moment of reflection amid a tightly contested federal race.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, passed away at the age of 88, bringing an end to a transformative papacy that began in 2013. Known for his down-to-earth leadership, the pontiff reshaped Catholic doctrine to focus on mercy, inclusion, and a stronger voice on global justice.
Churches across Australia have begun preparing for remembrance services throughout the week. The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference is expected to release an official statement later today, while the Vatican has confirmed plans for a funeral mass in Rome on Friday, April 25, which will be livestreamed globally.
