Australia's prime minister has cleared the way for an early double dissolution election.
On Monday, Malcolm Turnbull wore a tie that matched the breaking news ticker, donned some new spectacles and took his time getting to the point of what he wanted to announce. You could cut the anticipation in the air with a butter knife.
Tweet may have been deleted
After spruiking his government, Turnbull announced that the federal budget would be moved forward to May 3 and recalled parliament for April 18, so the houses can have a final debate about "important economic reforms."
Then he got out the big guns: If the Senate doesn't agree to pass two bills it has been fighting over, he would trigger a double dissolution election for July 2. Bam.
For the non-political junkies: A double dissolution is called by the governor-general, as advised by the prime minister, to break a deadlock between the House of Representatives and the Senate -- the two Houses of Australian parliament.
A double dissolution occurs when the Senate will not pass a bill, despite numerous amendments being made by the House of Representatives. Both houses have to agree to pass a bill into legislation.
In this case, both parties will have a joint sitting to debate the two bills causing trouble: the Australian Building and Construction Commission and the Registered Organisations Bill. If the bills do not pass the Senate, Turnbull will call a double dissolution election, with the public going to the polls and their vote ultimately changing the members of the houses.
Obviously, Australia -- which loves a bit of political drama -- went into meltdown at the news. Twitter was flooded with thousands of tweets, with political junkies unable to contain their glee.
Tweet may have been deleted
Bored with House of Cards? Move to Australia.
Tweet may have been deleted
Tweet may have been deleted
The circus has well and truly arrived back in town.
Tweet may have been deleted
Including our old friend.
Tweet may have been deleted
Treasurer Scott Morrison didn't know about Turnbull's plans until the last minute. He is not okay.
Tweet may have been deleted
Don't worry Morrison, Turnbull has this under control.
Tweet may have been deleted
He, like, knows Section 5.
Tweet may have been deleted
The time for playing games is most definitely over. Guys, Turnbull has new glasses.
Tweet may have been deleted
As #auspol trended, most of Australia stopped work to tweet immediately.
Tweet may have been deleted
Others should have stepped away from Twitter.
Tweet may have been deleted
The smart ones grabbed some popcorn, as they realised it was going to be a three month show.
Tweet may have been deleted
Kill us now.
Tweet may have been deleted
Missed Turnbull's speech? This kind person summarised it for you.
Tweet may have been deleted
Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.
