Treasurer Jim Chalmers launches attack on Coalition leader Peter Dutton

Peter Dutton is "divisive" and "dangerous", Treasurer Jim Chalmers has claimed in a heated attack on the opposition leader.

Chalmers, speaking at the annual John Curtin Oration in Melbourne overnight, went on the attack over the Coalition's recent parliamentary focus on refugees fleeing war-torn Gaza.

He labelled Dutton "the most divisive leader of a major political party in Australia's modern history".

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Dutton accused the government of endangering Australia's national security by granting visas to Gazan refugees, alleging insufficient security checks were carried out.

Chalmers also attacked the opposition leader's economic credentials.

"If anything, Dutton wants higher inflation, higher interest rates, higher unemployment, lower wages, and less help," he said.

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Chalmers also praised Labor's efforts on the economy, citing higher wages and decreasing inflation as government achievements, despite rising unemployment and a cost of living crisis squeezing more people.

It comes as the Coalition rolls out $100 million in spending cuts to take to the upcoming federal election.

Social housing, renewable energy connection programs, and Labor's signature Made in Australia policy could all be on the chopping block if the Coalition comes away with a win at the ballot box.

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