ScoMo says ‘I’m a full-termer’ – commits to three-year term

Scott Morrison has dismissed talk of an early election, while the government rides a wave of popularity. He told colleagues “I’m a full termer”, warning them to stay focused.

PRIME Minister Scott Morrison has committed to a full three year term, declaring to his colleagues “elections are too hard to win”.

With the Federal Government’s polling numbers going strong, there has been talk about an election being called as soon as August next year.

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But Mr Morrison told colleagues that he would not be calling an early election, warning them to stay focused.

“I’m a full termer,” he said.

“Elections are too hard to win.”

Prime Minister Scott Morrison told colleagues he will go full term. Picture: Sean Davey

It is understood that his reference to a full term meant going for three years, rather than a commitment not to call a double dissolution.

He told colleagues in the party room meeting on Tuesday that an election was “the furthest thing from my mind”.

Mr Morrison then quoted advice he received from former Liberal Prime Minister John Howard, “stay focused on the job you’re doing and you will do it well”.

The earliest an election could be held is August 7, 2021.

But a commitment to go full term and for three years would see the election closer to May 21, 2022.

Mr Morrison told colleagues that in a political cycle there were good times and bad times.

“There's a risk in good times when things are going well you can fall prey to complacency, to disunity and the work rate dropping off,” he said.

“That’s bad for government, even worse for the community and the people we serve.

“Discipline, unity and focus is more important than ever.”

Mr Morrison is on track to being the first Prime Minister of Australia to serve a full term since John Howard 14 years ago.