They didn't see it coming, but to give them their due, Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott made it through a surprise on-air radio hookup on Friday with good humour.
The opposition leader was being interviewed on Sydney's controversial Kyle and Jackie O show when the prime minister was patched into the conversation.
"G'day Mr Abbott, how are you Tony? Are you doing well?" Mr Rudd asked.
"Ah, Kevin, I'm fine and look I've got to say good luck and may the best man win," Mr Abbott replied.
Mr Rudd then replied: "Absolutely, it's a democracy. The people get to decide. You're ahead at the moment. My job is to narrow your lead today and see what the Australian people decide tomorrow."
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Mr Rudd jibed Mr Abbott over the coalition's bungling of internet filter policy on Thursday.
When asked for a yes or no answer on whether they could win, neither was succinct.
"Yes I believe we can," Mr Rudd finally said.
When pressed, Mr Abbott said: "Of course we can, but that's not to say we will. It's still anyone's race."
Mr Rudd conceded Mr Abbott was the fitter man, calling himself "the nerdy kid in the library."
"Stop going for the sympathy vote, Kevin," Mr Abbott said laughing.
The leaders' unexpected interaction was relatively civil and they forgave their hosts.
"This is the smartest on-air ambush for both of us during this campaign. I presume Tony you weren't aware of this either," Mr Rudd said.
"You've got to be ready for anything when you're talking to Kyle and Jackie," Mr Abbott replied.
