We know the Noalition added about $650 billion to the national debt during their time in office. Although they spent like drunken sailors splurging billions on their mates from the Big End of Town, with nothing to show for it, Australia's debt as a percentage of GDP isn't all that bad when compared to many others;

Australia 43.8%
Britain 97.6%
Canada 108%
USA 122%
Japan 255%
NZ 39.3%
China 83.4%

Australia's national debt is lower than about every country in Europe

Paul1405,
One would hope that Australia's debt is less with 25 million people in comparison to countries with 80-100 million.
47% is probably a figure from 25 years ago.

Indy,

Percentage has nothing do do with actual amount, its parts per 100. Sorry you never made it to high school to learn about percentages.

"Australia's debt is less with 25 million people in comparison to countries with 80-100 million. 47% is probably a figure from 25 years ago."

Me thinks to much aged welfare being spent on the terps again. 47 is your IQ not a percentage.