Here are some key differences between the major parties that could leave certain groups worse off:

Free TAFE

While the Coalition backs Labor’s $10,000 incentive for apprentices, it will also give employers $12,000 if they hire apprentices in areas with a skills shortage, something Labor won’t do.

Student debt reprieve

Roughly three million Australians with student debts won’t have their loans — including HECS/HELP debts — reduced under a Coalition government.

More than three million current and former university students have been promised 20 per cent reductions in their student debts under Labor. Credit: Chris Ison/PA

to take effect on 1 June 2025, estimated to save the average graduate $5,520.

The Albanese government also wants to increase the income threshold for when students are required to pay back their loans, which was lowered under the Morrison government.

Social and affordable housing

It will also axe Labor’s Build-to-Rent scheme, which incentivises developers to build housing entirely for renting and commits at least 10 per cent of the dwellings to affordable housing.

Throughout the campaign, Opposition housing spokesperson Michael Sukkar has not specified how many affordable homes the Coalition would build if elected.

Subsidised psychology sessions

Labor instead plans to establish 21 new youth specialist centres for more complex issues, on top of promises to expand, upgrade or build 58 headspace centres.

Penalty rates

Award wages often exempt staff from penalty rates in exchange for a higher base salary.

Essential Research polling last month commissioned by Australian Unions found 70 per cent of respondents said protecting penalty rates for workers would be an issue voters take into consideration at the ballot box. Source: Getty / Kriangkrai Thitimakorn

The Coalition argues Labor’s pledge would effectively strip the Fair Work Commission of its independence and the power to reduce penalty rates.

In a joint statement, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Australian Retailers Association and Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia warned Labor’s proposal could undermine job creation and threaten some small businesses.

Small business benefits

Labor will extend the asset tax perk for another year but will keep the $20,000 cap.

The Coalition will also allow small and medium-sized businesses to claim up to $20,000 each year on staff meals, a pledge that will not go ahead under Labor.

Electric Vehicle benefits

Opposition transport spokesperson Bridget McKenzie has also said EV owners should contribute to road maintenance, as other motorists do through the fuel excise, although the Coalition has stopped short of announcing a “tax”.

Public servant jobs

Dutton has revealed frontline services and national security roles will be spared, and some reductions will come from leaving vacancies unfilled.

The Albanese government will instead save billions by reducing spending on consultants, contractors and labour hire more broadly, pledging no cuts to public servants.

International student places and fees

It has also promised a 25 per cent cap on public university enrolments from 2026. The changes will result in 30,000 fewer new foreign students each year compared to Labor’s plan.

The Coalition will charge $5,000 for Group of Eight universities and $2,500 for all other international students if it is elected.

Regional infrastructure