Vote counting is underway now that most polls have closed in Australia's federal election. The winner will likely be known late on Saturday at local time.

The main players in the race are current Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull from Liberal Party and opposition leader Bill Shorten. Turnbull is known for his progressive views on climate change, same-sex marriage and the republican movement.

Meanwhile, Shorten from the Labor Party, is a former union organiser who came to attention 10 years ago during a mine collapse. He ascended to leadership in the wake of a turbulent period and defeat at the 2013 election.

He is campaigning to make Australia a "fairer" country, nominating education, healthcare and climate change as key concerns. Early exit polls showed both candidates in a dead heat.