Labor leader Anthony Albanese spoke for the first time as prime minister-elect on May 21, declaring victory in Australia’s federal election in a speech in Sydney. Early returns showed Albanese’s party was set to oust the Liberal-National coalition government. Albanese spoke of his humble beginnings as the son of “a single mum who was a disability pensioner, who grew up in public housing.” “I hope that my journey in life inspires Australians to reach for the stars. I want Australia to continue to be a country that no matter where you live, who you worship, who you love or what your last name is, that places no restrictions on your journey in life,” he said. “I want to seek our common purpose and promote unity and not fear and optimism, not fear and division. It is a show of strength to collaborate and work with people, not weakness.” Outgoing Prime Minister Scott Morrison conceded the election prior to Albanese’s speech. Credit: Anthony Albanese via Storyful
