Julia Gillard says national elections will take place in September . The Australian Electoral Commission has said the election date is set for October 26. Some commentators say it will subject voters to a lengthy ordeal . Dennis Shanahan , political editor of The Australian , a national broadsheet newspaper said that although Gillard was giving up the advantage of surprise that she held over the opposition , she would have the chance to leverage the benefits of her incumbency . Opposition leader Tony Abbott says he welcomes the announcement .
Julia Gillard says national elections will take place in September . The Australian Electoral Commission has said the election date is set for October 26. Some commentators say it will subject voters to a lengthy ordeal . Opposition leader Tony Abbott says he welcomes the announcement .