Double dissolution. Those two alliterative words have captured the attention of Australia’s politicians and punters after the Albanese government left the door ajar on the parliament-shaking option. On Tuesday, Anthony Albanese was asked whether he would consider sending Australians to the polls in a few months in order to re-elect a whole new upper and lower house. While Gough Whitlam’s double dissolution in 1974 might be the most common fodder in pub trivia quizzes, it has occurred six other times in Australian history, including as recently as 2016 under Malcolm Turnbull.

So what does it mean, and what happens now?

A double dissolution is when the governor general – usually on the advice of the prime minister – dissolves both houses of parliament in preparation for an election. It happens when a bill passes the House of Representatives – which the government in power almost always has a majority in – but fails to pass the Senate twice. Three months must elapse between the two attempts in the Senate.

Once that occurs, a door opens for the prime minister. They can recommend to the governor general that a double dissolution take place. That means every single seat in the House of Representatives and the Senate is up for re-election. That’s different to a federal election, when just half of the senators are up for re-election along with all politicians in the House of Representatives. However, a double dissolution can only take place six months or more before the expiry date for the House of Representatives (Friday 25 July 2025).

The Senate's Role

In two words: the Senate. While Labor controls the House of Representatives, the balance of power is held by the crossbench and Greens in the Senate. It means Labor either needs to win over the Coalition to pass legislation, or negotiate with the 11 Greens senators and others sitting on the crossbench to get the majority. So far, the situation in the Senate has required Labor to negotiate with the opposition, the minor parties or crossbench “kingmakers” to get bills through.

Double Dissolutions in History

A double dissolution has happened seven times – in 1914, 1951, 1974, 1975, 1983, 1987 and most recently in 2016 under Malcolm Turnbull. While the results have varied, it's worth noting that these elections have historically resulted in a significant shift in the political landscape. For instance, the 1974 double dissolution, called by Gough Whitlam, saw the Labor Party gain a landslide victory, ending the Liberal-Country Party coalition's reign. Similarly, the 2016 double dissolution, called by Malcolm Turnbull, resulted in a hung parliament, forcing the Liberal Party to negotiate with the crossbench to form a government. The double dissolution, while a powerful tool for a prime minister, is not a guaranteed path to success. The outcome of a double dissolution can be influenced by several factors, including the political climate, the performance of the incumbent government, and the public's perception of the opposition.

The Potential Impact of a Double Dissolution in 2024

Australia’s had seven double-dissolution elections, including under Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Turnbull. Here’s what happens. The potential impact of a double dissolution in 2024 is a topic of much speculation. Some argue that it could provide Albanese with a stronger mandate and help him push through his agenda. Others, however, believe it could backfire, leading to a hung parliament or even a change in government. The outcome is ultimately uncertain. However, one thing is clear: a double dissolution election would be a major event in Australian politics, with the potential to significantly shape the country's future.

The Uncertain Future

The possibility of a double dissolution has raised eyebrows, ignited debates, and sent ripples across the Australian political landscape. It's a powerful tool that a prime minister can wield, but with a significant gamble attached. Whether Albanese will take this gamble remains to be seen. The future is shrouded in uncertainty. But one thing is certain: the Australian public is watching closely, bracing themselves for another possible election.