Rudd Calls Australia Election Sept. 7 as Focus on Economy

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd called an election for Sept. 7, saying the five-week campaign will center on management of the $1.5 trillion economy as a China-driven resources boom wanes.

“Who do you best trust to manage a very profound economic transition,” Rudd said today at a news conference in Canberra after visiting Governor-General Quentin Bryce to seek approval to hold a ballot. “Economic management will be a core determinant of this election.”