Character, Cost & Contradictions: Unpacking the Final Debate Before the Polls Close
Promises for Tomorrow, Pressures Today: A Closer Look at the Leaders’ Final Faceoff.
With Election Day upon the Australian people and over half a million Australians having already cast their votes, the third and final leaders' debate delivered the intensity and controversy many expected. Hosted in a fiery format with rapid-fire questions, it was less a policy exchange and more a character showdown.
At the heart of the faceoff were cost of living pressures, housing affordability, student debt, defence spending, and energy policy. But woven through the substance was a thread of personal attack, desperate promises, and some telling contradictions.
While promises for the next three years were laid out, many were left wondering: what about now, and what about the past three years?
We might also ask—what was the point of the character compliments that closed the debate? Does it get things done for the people? Not really. It felt more like a carefully staged appeal to unity, a "let’s all get along" moment, which might be admirable during a term of government—but in the context of an election, it completely missed the point.
Voters aren’t here for pleasantries. They’re here for accountability, for solutions to urgent problems—housing, inflation, cost of living, student debt, energy, and trust in institutions. Offering niceties at the end of a fiery debate does little to address those concerns. After all, Hitler was a family man too. Being personable or having a family doesn’t justify harmful politics or policies that disadvantage communities, ignore minority groups, or push Australia further into inequity.
Cost of Living: Relief or Rhetoric?
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton centred his pitch on immediate relief: a 25-cent cut to the fuel excise and temporary assistance measures. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese countered with long-term structural change, arguing that temporary relief may win votes but won’t solve the systemic crisis.
Albanese highlighted the Labor government's focus on cheaper Medicare and reforms that would last beyond electoral cycles. But Dutton hammered the immediacy of household pain, capitalising on public frustration.
Housing Hopes or Housing Spin?
A standout policy announcement from Albanese was the 5% deposit scheme, enabling more Australians to enter the market with less upfront cash. He also pointed to the WA co-ownership model, where the government holds 40% of the property.
While seemingly supportive of first-home buyers, the scheme raises red flags: the increased repayments, higher interest exposure, and uncertainties around government equity buyback—all in a climate where Treasurer Jim Chalmers is eyeing retirement superannuation.
Meanwhile, Queensland’s LNP is encouraging homeowners to rent rooms out—but this is hampered by council fees and red tape that remain unaddressed.
Youth, Education & Student Debt
Albanese promised legislation to reduce student debt by 20%—a significant gesture to a disillusioned youth cohort. Dutton offered little in contrast but emphasised broad economic reform. Questions remain around whether mature-age students and those outside the HELP system would benefit.
Defence Spending & National Security
Dutton declared a $21 billion commitment to defence, representing 2.5% of GDP, yet dodged specifics on funding. Albanese countered that under Labor, defence spending is at its highest in decades. Both sides made a point of supporting national security, but questions around transparency and priorities persist.
Nuclear, Energy and the Environment
Despite protests erupting during the debate, both leaders stuck to their positions: no new nuclear development. Dutton promised an energy system overhaul, Albanese focused on existing reforms. Neither offered significant climate or environmental policies to match public sentiment.
Character and Credibility
The debate became personal. Dutton called the PM a liar—"couldn’t lie straight in bed"—while Albanese accused Dutton of cutting frontline services. Carl Stefanovic pushed hard: "Is the PM a liar?" The tone was ugly, and the cracks in leadership styles were visible.
Women voters were another focus—Dutton’s image problem compounded by a backflip on working from home. Albanese accused the Coalition of desperation, while Dutton leaned heavily on his record and consistency.
Final Thoughts: What Should Voters Ask?
Beyond the spin and spectacle, voters are left with questions.
Will temporary relief solve long-term pain?
Can you trust either party’s pledges?
Will housing reform be equitable—or create future debt traps?
And what does leadership really mean—policy or personality?
Let’s not forget what wasn’t said.
The extravagant waste on The Voice referendum
The Albanese government’s backdoor legislative changes despite the public's clear voice. Site of interest Voice.gov.au
The unconscionable delay in addressing atrocities in Israel — a silence shared by all sides of Parliament. And the disgraceful pre-Christmas stampede to push through over 30 bills without proper scrutiny.
These aren't signs of responsible governance. They’re warnings — and they demand more than just attention. They demand accountability.
Finishing Up…
As the final leaders’ debate wraps up just days before the election, the theatrics may have grabbed headlines — but many Australians are still asking: what about now?
What about the past three years?
While promises are cast into the future, voters are facing immediate pressures — rising costs, housing barriers, student debt, and wavering trust in leadership.
This article draws together key debate moments, policy contradictions, and long-standing failures affecting everyday Australians. It’s time to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters.
Leadership is not a title; it's a duty:
Recognise the damage. Remedy the harm. Reform the system.
Recognise. Remedy. Reform.
—Dianne
Next up: a closer look at Katy Gallagher’s track record – accountability starts at the top and within.
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