Overview
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was declared the winner of the first federal election leaders’ debate, securing 44% audience support compared to Peter Dutton’s 35%, with 21% undecided.
- The debate, held in Western Sydney with 100 undecided voters, highlighted key policy disputes on cost-of-living measures, healthcare, energy, and migration.
- Both leaders accused each other of dishonesty, with Albanese criticizing Dutton’s nuclear reactor funding proposals and Dutton questioning Labor's energy bill relief promises.
- Foreign policy discussions included Albanese advocating for a Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid, while Dutton defended Israel’s actions as justified.
- The debate reinforced the candidates’ established political positions, with Albanese emphasizing Labor’s economic achievements and Dutton focusing on rising costs under the current government.