In a bid to reposition crime as a key election issue, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced a substantial funding package of $750 million, unveiled just a day ahead of early voting. Central to this package is a proposal for a child sex offender register, modelled after the UK’s system, enabling parents to investigate whether individuals their children interact with have a history of offences against minors. Dutton emphasised the urgency of this initiative, asserting, “This register is an idea whose time has come – and it is now time to put it into force to protect our kids.”
He believes the scheme will not only deter potential offenders but will also empower parents with vital safety information about their children’s associates. A pilot version of a similar scheme is already in progress in Western Australia. Under Dutton’s funding plan, nearly half of the allocated resources will target a taskforce aimed at combatting illicit drug use.
In reaction to Dutton’s announcement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted that his government has already implemented a child sex offender register, as well as proactive measures against drug smuggling. He expressed confusion over the Coalition’s apparent unawareness of their own initiatives, including a $350 million crackdown on illegal tobacco operations undertaken by the Australian Border Force.
Dutton’s announcement comes at a critical time, as early voting is set to commence imminently. Recent polls reflect a challenging landscape for the Coalition, with one Newspoll indicating that Labor has solidified its 52-48 two-party preferred lead over the Coalition, alongside an increase in first-preference votes. Albanese currently enjoys a significant lead over Dutton as the preferred prime minister. Additionally, a recent poll indicated that Labor holds a commanding 54.5-45.5 lead in key marginal seats, suggesting a 3.5 percentage point swing in their favour since the last election.
Addressing Labor’s position, Albanese remarked that his party is not complacent despite the positive polling, pointing out that no prime minister has secured re-election after a full term since John Howard in 2004. He acknowledged the uphill battle that lies ahead but expressed confidence in their progress.
The two leaders are set to confront each other again in the third debate of the campaign, “The Great Debate,” which will be streamed live on Channel 9 and its affiliates, adding further tension as voters prepare to cast their ballots.