In the inaugural debate of the 2025 federal election campaign, held at the Wenty Leagues Club in western Sydney, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton addressed critical topics, including inflation, energy policy, healthcare costs, migration, and funding for essential services.

The debate, broadcast on Sky News, featured an audience of 100 undecided voters who were invited to pose questions to the leaders.

The leaders began the debate with accusations of dishonesty against one another.

Albanese claimed the previous Coalition government made cuts to health and education funding, which Dutton vehemently contested, stating that funding had never decreased during their time in office.

Dutton accused Albanese of making "not a truthful statement" and labeled Labor's narrative about Coalition cuts as "dishonest."

Dutton acknowledged that while Coalition spending had not risen as much as Labor would have liked, the funding levels for hospitals and education had remained stable.

In response, Albanese pointed to the Coalition's spending during the COVID-19 pandemic, arguing that Dutton's claims were misleading.

The discussion then shifted to healthcare, with Albanese prominently displaying his Medicare card to illustrate bulk billing availability.

Dutton challenged this by referencing a question from an audience member, who spoke of the significant gap fees associated with accessing medical care, suggesting that many Australians were facing out-of-pocket expenses that contradicted Albanese's assertions of improved bulk billing rates.

Each leader emphasized their respective policies, with Albanese promoting Labor’s economic track record, asserting that the hardest years of inflation were behind Australians.

Dutton countered by highlighting the rising cost of living and the unmet promise of reducing energy bills.

He criticized Albanese's administration for not delivering on its commitments, particularly regarding lower electricity prices following renewables policies.

The debate also touched upon foreign affairs, briefly acknowledging the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Albanese stated that no Australian weapons were being used by Israel in the conflict and reaffirmed his call for a peaceful resolution.

While the audience appeared engaged, the leaders adhered closely to their established talking points, which have characterized their respective campaigns thus far.

The atmosphere of the debate was generally polite, with both leaders maintaining a courteous demeanor despite the heated exchanges regarding various policy issues.

Albanese was deemed the victor by 44% of the audience, as opposed to Dutton's 35%, with 21% remaining undecided.

Both leaders are scheduled to participate in another debate on April 16, 2025, as the election campaign continues.