PM falls from stage after speech – as it happened
03/04/2025Thank you for being with us on yet another whirlwind day on the campaign trail. That’s where we’ll leave things. Here are the main takeaways:
Anthony Albanese began day seven of the campaign in Melbourne to tout the government’s “same job, same pay” laws, while Peter Dutton was in Western Australia, announcing $600m for roads critical to mining and agriculture.
The day was quickly overshadowed by news Australia had been hit with a 10% tariff on all imports to the US.
In response, the prime minister said this was “not the act of a friend” and would have “consequences” for how Australians views the US-Australia relationship.
Albanese said his government would not respond with reciprocal tariffs, but would use “every asset” available in talks with the US. He outlined a five-point plan in response.
The opposition leader claimed the Coalition would have been able to achieve a different outcome on tariffs – without citing exactly how, and despite the fact no other country in the world was granted an exemption.
While being questioned on this, Dutton wouldn’t commit that as prime minister he would be able to get these tariffs removed.
The trade minister, Don Farrell, said he would meet with his European counterparts to re-discuss a free trade agreement with the EU.
The former prime minister Paul Keating labelled Trump’s sweeping tariff announcement as a “blitzkrieg on globalisation”, saying it represents the “effective death knell of NATO”.
The ABC will host the first free-to-air leaders’ debate at 8pm on 16 April with Insiders host David Speers as moderator.
Krishani Dhanji will be back with you first thing tomorrow morning for another day of action. Take care, and enjoy your evening.