Australian Prime Minister Albanese and Opposition Leader Dutton canceled campaign events Tuesday to mark the death of Pope Benedict XVI. Early voting for the May 3 election continued. Flags flew at half-mast nationwide, reflecting the 20% of Australians identifying as Catholic. Albanese, raised Catholic but secularly sworn in, attended a Mass; Dutton, from a mixed-faith background, planned church attendance. Both leaders emphasized respect and reflection over campaigning on this day.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.