Sydney, April 27, 2025 –
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been declared the winner of the final leaders’ debate against Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, as judged by a panel of 60 undecided voters during Channel Seven’s televised "jury room" event on Sunday night.
In a crucial showdown less than a week before Australians head to the polls, Albanese secured 50% of the jury’s support, compared to Dutton’s 25%, while the remaining 25% remained undecided. The debate focused on key election issues including the economy, cost of living, migration, energy policy, and Indigenous recognition.
Both leaders faced tough questions, with Albanese defending his government's record on reducing inflation and improving real wages, while Dutton sought to capitalize on voter discontent over rising living costs and housing affordability. The Opposition Leader also stirred controversy by criticizing the frequency of “Welcome to Country” ceremonies, a move Albanese condemned as divisive.
A lighter moment occurred when neither leader could correctly state the current price of a dozen eggs — a slip that highlighted the election's dominant theme: the cost of living crisis.
Following the debate, Albanese said he was "humbled" by the support shown by undecided voters and pledged to continue delivering "economic stability and opportunities for all Australians."
Dutton, meanwhile, insisted that the debate had exposed "Labor’s failures" and said he remained confident that Australians were "ready for a change of government."
With early voting already underway and more than two million Australians having cast their ballots, the final debate is seen as a critical moment in the tight election race. Experts suggest Albanese’s strong showing may help Labor consolidate its position in key marginal seats ahead of election day on May 3.
This marks the final direct clash between the two leaders before Australians decide who will lead the country for the next three years.
