Morrison has won the unwinnable election, shattering the credibility of pollsters and Labor’s belief in a big policy program. In this special election edition, we’ve brought you the highlights and lowlights, from Abbott’s loss in Warringah to the tears at Labor HQ.

BERNARD KEANE 3 minute read

A sharp swing to the far right in Queensland has enabled Scott Morrison to hold off Labor and achieve a victory few thought possible — even among opinion pollsters.

CHARLIE LEWIS 5 minute read

Independent candidate Zali Steggall has thanked her supporters for "voting for the future". And with that, Abbott is condemned to the past.

WILLIAM BOWE 3 minute read

This was far from a status quo result, instead consisting of substantial electoral realignments that cancelled out in aggregate.

BERNARD KEANE 4 minute read

As the results rolled in through the night, careers ended and shocks abounded as Labor's expected win vanished.

BERNARD KEANE 3 minute read

Labor sought to capture the deep disaffection in many parts of the country toward business-as-usual politics. Instead, those voters embraced the far right fringe in a stunning rejection of Labor's program.

CHRIS WOODS 4 minute read

It’s all Clive Palmer’s fault. It's all Queensland's fault. Penny Wong needs to lead the party. Whatever you pinned it on, this was a night of rage and resignation.

MARGOT SAVILLE 3 minute read

Dutton's electors are older, whiter and more affluent than the average Australian. This came down to highways and franking credits.