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 .
Julia Gillard says national elections will take place in September . It 's unusually advanced notice for elections in Australia . Some commentators say it will subject voters to a lengthy ordeal . Opposition leader Tony Abbott says he welcomes the announcement .