Canberra – Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Coalition Campaign Spokesman, Senator James Paterson, launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during a doorstop following the ABC Leaders Debate on Tuesday evening, accusing the PM of telling “bald-faced lies” on key policy issues, particularly on negative gearing.
Senator Paterson claimed the Prime Minister “flat out lied” when he denied commissioning Treasury advice on changes to negative gearing. Paterson pointed to public admissions by Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirming that such modelling had been requested. “This is the most bald-faced lie he’s told in this campaign so far,” Paterson asserted, demanding transparency from the government and warning of a potential “secret plan” on housing policy.
The Coalition Senator also defended Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s stance on climate change, stating he “absolutely accepts the science” and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050 through a $331 billion nuclear transition strategy.
Pressed on Dutton’s controversial comments regarding potential Russian military interests in Indonesia, Paterson said the Opposition Leader had relied on media reports, and had “apologised in a live televised debate” once doubts emerged. He turned the focus back on the government, questioning what the Albanese administration knew and when, in relation to the alleged Russian request.
On Australia’s relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Paterson avoided a direct statement of trust but stressed the enduring strength of the Australia-U.S. alliance, stating, “We trust the relationship, which is bigger than any one leader.”
Defending Dutton’s debate performance, Paterson declared him the clear winner, citing strong arguments made on cost of living, housing, and energy. He also reiterated criticism of Australia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Kevin Rudd, questioning his access to key officials in the White House and his effectiveness in Washington, D.C.
Responding to suggestions that voters may see all politicians as dishonest, Paterson said, “The Prime Minister lies, and he has lied frequently in this campaign.” He revealed the Coalition has launched an “Albanese Lie Tracker” to document alleged falsehoods by the PM throughout the election period.
With just weeks to go before election day, the tone of the campaign continues to sharpen, as both major parties vie for control of the narrative—and the trust of Australian voters.
