Opposition Leader Peter Dutton acknowledges that his public image has often been seen as “dark” and divisive. With a background in national security and immigration policies, he has faced comparisons to figures like Donald Trump. However, as the next federal election looms, Dutton is making a concerted effort to reshape public perception—particularly among Australian women.
Unlike Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who frequently shares his upbringing story of being raised by a single mother in social housing, Dutton’s personal background has remained largely unknown to the public. But he is now making an effort to change that.
Shifting Public Perception
Dutton, a private individual by nature, admits that his political roles have contributed to the way Australians perceive him. He acknowledges that short, sharp television grabs often define his image rather than long-form interviews where he can showcase a different side of himself.
“I think you get painted in a particular way, and sometimes you can be your own worst enemy,” Dutton told Mamamia in a recent interview. “I’ve had roles that are pretty tough, and that shapes how people see you.”
As leader of the Liberal Party, Dutton has seen his net favorability rating improve by 20 percentage points over the past 12 to 18 months, a turnaround he calls “remarkable.” He attributes this shift to being more open about his life and values.
His Personal Story: A Working-Class Upbringing
Dutton grew up as the eldest of five children in a working-class family. His father was a bricklayer, and his mother worked in childcare. At the age of 19, he joined the Queensland Police Force, a decision that he says fundamentally shaped his outlook on crime, safety, and national security.
“My first shift involved delivering death messages, responding to domestic violence incidents, and dealing with horrific car accidents. You grow up overnight,” Dutton recalled. “It’s those experiences that drove my commitment to protecting women and children.”
A Focus on Women’s Safety
One of Dutton’s key messages is his commitment to ensuring that all Australian women feel safe in their own homes.
“For a woman, not feeling safe in her home—the very place that should be a refuge—is deeply troubling,” he said. “If I become prime minister, I want to focus on improving protections for women and children.”
While critics argue that the Liberal Party has not traditionally been associated with addressing systemic issues linked to domestic violence—such as poverty, drug addiction, and economic inequality—Dutton defends his track record.
“I made it a priority to cancel visas for domestic violence perpetrators, paedophiles, and serious offenders. It’s a tough decision to deport someone, but ensuring they don’t go on to harm another woman or child is paramount,” he stated.
Economic Independence and Work Policies
Dutton also emphasized his commitment to policies that support women’s economic empowerment, affordable housing, and online safety.
“I want to create an environment where women can achieve financial independence, afford a home, and recover from a violent relationship,” he said.
However, his stance on flexible work arrangements has drawn criticism. The Opposition’s recent push for public servants to return to the office five days a week has been viewed by some as limiting work opportunities for women. Finance Minister Katy Gallagher argued that such policies ignore the realities of modern families.
“They don’t have women’s interests at heart,” Gallagher said. “Women depend on flexible work to balance careers and caregiving.”
Dutton defended the policy, arguing that efficient government service delivery requires in-office work while also noting that job-sharing arrangements could accommodate those unable to be in the office full-time.
Acknowledging Criticism and Moving Forward
Dutton understands that words alone will not be enough to convince voters.
“I know Australians are doing it tough, and it’s easy for politicians to acknowledge that without recognizing that some policies have contributed to the struggles,” he admitted. “I’ve never forgotten my working-class roots, and I want to bring that understanding to the office of prime minister.”
The Political Landscape
Recent polling indicates Dutton’s net approval rating sits at minus three (41% approval, 44% disapproval), slightly ahead of Albanese’s minus eight. However, voters remain skeptical about whether the Liberal Party can deliver cost-of-living relief, higher wages, and protect Medicare.
With nearly half of surveyed voters still undecided, Dutton’s appeal to women and his broader policy commitments could be crucial in shaping the election outcome.
“I want to be a prime minister who governs for all Australians,” he said. “And I’m willing to be held accountable.”
Dutton has committed to returning to Mamamia’s No Filter podcast in 12 months to discuss his progress in improving the lives of women and families across Australia.
