Australia PM says re-elect us to counter Brexit chaos

Markets shuddered after Britain’s shock decision to leave the European Union, including in Australia where the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 closed down more than three percent Friday after volatile trade.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull urged voters to re-elect his coalition government on July 2, tipped to be a close race with the opposition Labor Party.

“Our clear economic plan is more essential than ever as we enter this period of uncertainty in global markets following the British vote to leave the European Union,” Turnbull said at the Liberal-National coalition campaign launch in Sydney.

“Calm heads, steady hands and a strong economic plan are critical for Australia to withstand any of these negative repercussions. At a time of uncertainty, the last thing we need is a parliament in disarray.”  Australia’s own politics have been turbulent in recent years, with a “revolving door” of prime ministers in charge.

Four different leaders have served since 2013 as parties removed sitting prime ministers. Turnbull deposed Tony Abbott in a Liberal Party coup in September, but his predecessor was present Sunday and the pair even shook hands.

“I am urging every Australian to think of this election as if their single vote will determine what sort of government we have after July 2,” Turnbull said, adding that supporting minor parties or independents would also be a “roll of the dice”.