Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has come out swinging in defense of his government's handling of the economy, while also taking a swipe at the Coalition's record on Medicare.
In a recent interview on 60 Minutes, Albanese was grilled about whether his job is on the line due to Labor's response to Australia's cost-of-living crisis.
With housing costs and bills for basics skyrocketing, Australians are feeling the pinch. Polls have shown that this is the top concern for voters as they prepare to cast their ballots.
Albanese was quick to point out that his government has implemented measures to address the crisis, all of which have been opposed by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.
Aiming for a Soft Landing
"We're aiming for a soft landing, bringing inflation down without throwing people on the unemployment scrap heap," Albanese said.
He also blamed the Coalition for "pouring petrol on the fire" with a $78 billion deficit, which his government has since turned into a $22 billion surplus.
Medicare Under Fire
Albanese also took aim at the Coalition's record on health, particularly their handling of Medicare.
He accused Dutton of ripping tens of billions of dollars out of the health system, including a rebates freeze that led to fewer GPs bulk-billing.
However, when asked if he was planning to run a Mediscare-style campaign, Albanese insisted that he was focused on a positive campaign, not a negative one.
A Positive Campaign
"I want to bring Australians together, lift people up, not punch down on people," Albanese said.
He highlighted his government's efforts to revamp the health system, including a $573 million investment in women's healthcare and an $8.5 billion pledge to make 90% of GP appointments bulk-billed by 2030.
While the Coalition has promised to match the funding, Albanese remains confident that his government's policies will resonate with voters.
Election Campaign Heating Up
As the election campaign heats up, it's clear that the cost-of-living crisis and health care will be key battlegrounds.
Albanese is determined to defend his government's record and promote his vision for the future, while the Coalition will likely continue to attack Labor's handling of the economy.
One thing is certain - the next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the outcome of the federal election.
