PM wants prime-time third debate on ABC

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has proposed the third leaders' debate be hosted by the ABC in Sydney on prime-time television.

The Liberals earlier in the week criticised Opposition Leader Bill Shorten, claiming he was avoiding prime-time scrutiny by seeking to have the third debate at the National Press Club at lunchtime.

Mr Morrison released a letter on Sunday evening seeking a third debate to be moderated by ABC journalist Leigh Sales and held in the evening of May 7, 8 or 9.

"A prime-time debate would provide as many Australians as possible, including those who work during the day, the best opportunity to scrutinise the very clear choice on offer at this election," the letter said.

The letter also says the third debate wouldn't prevent the two leaders going head-to-head again and doesn't rule out the Nine Network's proposal to host a debate.

Mr Shorten, who faced questions about his lunchtime debate proposal, said the public has the opportunity to replay the debate if they miss it on platforms such as ABC's iview.

"It's possible to do an interview at one point in the day and replay it," he told the Nine Network on Sunday.

Both leaders are due to go head-to-head in Perth on Monday, televised by the Seven Network, and Brisbane on Friday on Sky News.