Albanese and Dutton Clash in First Federal Election Debate

Iruni Kalupahana Jadetimes Staff

I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Australia

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Image Source: Jason Edwards

Ahead of the 3 May federal election, Australian Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had their first official debate on Tuesday night. The Daily Telegraph and Sky News hosted the event, which was eagerly awaited as the two leaders addressed key national and international issues to 100 undecided voters.

Cost of Living at the Forefront

The discussion was filled with the spiraling cost of living, which has been hitting many Australians. Both leaders addressed differing means to cut costs domestically, including cutting the excise on fuel as a potential step and getting hold of the exorbitant rises in visiting general practitioners.

Taking on Trump's Tariffs

The exchange began with a question of whether Australia would do anything regarding potential tariffs by former US President Donald Trump. Albanese was sure that Australia was prepared, referring to his government's ongoing diplomatic moves.

"No nation is better placed," he said. "We'll continue to negotiate with the United States, to get a better deal. Reciprocal tariffs need to be zero, because we don't put tariffs on US imports."

Dutton replied by referring to his own experience with dealing with the Trump administration.

"The previous prime minister would have to be able to get in the way of bullies," he said to reporters. "We need to defend Australian interests and defend national security."

Close Race Predicted

Voting polls have a close election with a likelihood that either team may have to form a coalition government with small parties or independents.

Sky News declared Albanese the winner of the night, from the point of view of the undecided votes of the 100 guests who also posed questions during the debate.

As the election date draws near, the two leaders will continue the intense campaign to secure the undecided voters' votes, in what will be one of Australia's most hotly contested federal elections in some time.