Pleased with tonight's debate. If you want a new way, you've got to choose a new government #realchange #AusVotes — Tony Abbott (@TonyAbbottMHR) August 11, 2013

Well folks, that was your first election debate.

Thanks so much for joining me this evening on Politics Live. I've enjoyed your company.

Thanks too to the wonderful Mike Bowers, who took us so vividly into the room at the NPC tonight; and to Paul Owen, who provided valuable help in the middle of the deluge.

We don't need a huge summary, because we know what we gathered for this evening: the first televised debate of the 2013 campaign.

Let's wrap tonight:

The first leader's debate of campaign 2013 covered the economy, taxation, climate change, boat arrivals and same sex marriage.

Tony Abbott began looking more confident than the Labor leader.

Rudd got into stride after the first segment.

The only real news point was a promise by Kevin Rudd to introduce a bill within his first 100 days to legalise same sex marriage.

I called the encounter a draw. The network "worms" were mixed. Some declared Rudd the victor, others Abbott.

I really disliked the format. I see from readers comments that I am not alone.

The Liberals are very unhappy that Rudd used notes in the debate in contravention of the rules. I suspect we will hear more of this over the next 24 hours or so.

If so inclined, you can review the opening statements on this video.

Enjoy the rest of your evening. See you all tomorrow.