Leaders debate a 'test for temperament'

Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott will have a chance to argue about costings and temperament when they face off today just hours after their treasurers also go head to head in a debate.

Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey is due to release interim costings for the coalition's election promises, including the paid parental leave scheme, when he debates Treasurer Chris Bowen at the National Press Club in Canberra.

Mr Abbott is confident the coalition's "spends and saves" will show a better budget bottom line than Labor's.

But Mr Rudd insists Labor is better at economic management and the coalition is all about cuts.

Last night, Mr Rudd cast doubt on Mr Abbott's temperament to deal with complex issues like the crisis in Syria.