By Tess Ikonomou in Brisbane

With voters turning their attention to the Easter long weekend, the pace of the two major parties’ election campaigns has entered a lull.

Both Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton attended the Sydney Royal Easter Show on Saturday, in a bid to sell their messages just days ahead of early voting opening.

Up to half of voters are expected to cast their ballots before the May 3 election, when hundreds of pre-polling centres progressively starting opening across the country from Tuesday.

The prime minister is expected to attend a church service in Sydney on Easter Sunday, while the opposition leader will be in his home city of Brisbane.

“I want to wish everyone a safe and joyous Easter weekend,” Mr Albanese said.

“For Christians, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a sacred time that is central to faith.

“Whether you’re reflecting, taking a break, spending time with family and friends, or getting the kids ready for an Easter egg hunt, this is a wonderful time of the year.

“So however you’re spending this weekend, may it be everything you want it to be.”

For those travelling, the prime minister urged them to stay safe.

Mr Dutton said the Christian holiday was a time for “reflection” and to be with loved ones.

“The Easter story is one of faith, renewal and enduring hope,” he said.

“Easter also reminds us of the values that help bind our nation together – service, kindness, compassion and grace.

“From my family to yours, I wish you a safe, happy and holy Easter.”

The leaders spent the past week crisscrossing the nation after they kicked off their official campaigns last Sunday.

The latest YouGov poll, published last week, showed Labor had further gained ground against the coalition on a two-party preferred basis, recording the strongest result in 18 months.

Almost half of voters said Mr Albanese was their preferred prime minister compared to 38 per cent who back Mr Dutton, according to Newspoll.