Malcolm Turnbull’s move to have the governor-general recall parliament, using an often-forgotten constitutional power, caught many political players off guard. He’s put a tough choice to the Senate crossbench: pass the government’s industrial relations legislation or face the people at a July 2 double-dissolution election.

University of Canberra Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research Frances Shannon and Professorial Fellow Michelle Grattan examine how Turnbull’s double-dissolution play will heighten the pressure on Bill Shorten and the crossbenchers.

Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond the academic appointment above.