There are certain predictable signposts on the road to polling day that are handy reference points for those tracking progress. The first of these is the inevitable ‘debate’ over the televised debate between the two leaders. How many will there be? Who will moderate? Will it be shown on free-to-air? Will the questions come from voters or from journalists?

Consistent with the slow start to a formal campaign period interrupted by Easter and Anzac Day, this time-honored wrangle occured in week two rather than its more traditional slot in the first week of proceedings.