The third leaders’ debate between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton will go ahead tonight on Channel 9, despite speculation it could be cancelled or postponed following the Pope’s passing.
Both leaders paused campaign events and media appearances today after the announcement of the Pope’s death just before 6pm AEST last night, prompting questions over whether the debate would proceed as scheduled.
However, this afternoon, a Nine spokesperson confirmed to TV Blackbox that the debate remains set for 7.30pm, airing on Channel 9, 9Now, and streaming live on Stan.
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This marks the third official debate of the 2025 Federal Election campaign, following last week’s highly viewed showdown hosted by the ABC.
A fourth and final debate is scheduled to air next week on Channel 7, rounding out the election lead-up ahead of polling day on May 3.
Nine’s leaders’ debate airs live at 7.30pm tonight on Channel 9, 9Now, and streaming on Stan.
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Why wouldn’t it?
Steve Brett As mentioned in the article, both the PM and Opposition Leader paused campaigning today and cancelled various events in light of the news which cast some doubt as to whether the debate would go ahead tonight or not.
TV Blackbox
Sees bit odd they would do that 
TV Blackbox Except the PM didn’t pause his campaign. Typical. He called media together, twice.
Ahd, how left that will be!
That’s why the Tipping Point Australia Travel Guides Special is not on tonight, They just filmed that episode special so who knows when that will be on
So it should, not everyone is catholic or Christian.
Prime Minister Of Australia Do You Mean Future Premier Of Perth