The election timetable was as follows:
| 14 October 2007 |
Announcement by the Prime Minister of an election for the House of Representatives and half the Senate, for the 42nd Parliament |
| 17 October 2007 |
Electoral writs issued |
| 23 October 2007 |
Close of rolls |
| 1 November 2007 |
Close of nominations |
| 2 November 2007 |
Declaration of nominations |
| 24 November 2007 |
Polling day |
| 21 December 2007 |
Return of electoral writs |
| 12 February 2008 |
Meeting of Parliament |
Source: Australian Electoral Commission