Peter Dutton pulls out as candidates speak at Dickson People's Forum - live & free on 6 News

Out of the 8 names on the ballot, 6 candidates showed up last night.

Peter Dutton has pulled out of a People's Forum in his Queensland electorate of Dickson at the last minute, with 6 of a possible 8 candidates showing up.

At early as yesterday afternoon, 6 News understood that the Defence Minister would be there, but was informed half-an-hour before it began that he would not be in attendance.

Political Reporter Roman Mackinnon confirmed that news 10 minutes before the forum began.

Attending last night were the following candidates:

• Ali France (ALP)

• Vinnie Batten (GRN)

• Alina Ward (UAP)

• Tamera Gibson (PHON)

• Thor Prohaka (IND)

• Alan Buchbach (IND)

Ms. France tweeted about the sitting member's absence, saying Dutton apparently "had another engagement."

After introducing themselves individually, all candidates took a number of questions from voters in the room.

Topics included the NBN, climate change, healthcare, and more.

At one point during his question, a man asked his fellow audience members how many had already made up their minds about who they'll be voting for.

At least half of the people in the room raised their hand, as shown live on 6 News.

6 News did not organise the forum, nor did we moderate, host, or control it - however, we were the only news outlet to broadcast it live.

You can see the Dickson People's Forum in full here.

Check out the latest impartial coverage of the 2022 Federal Election here.

Help support unbiased journalism & keep us independent: donate just $4 a month on Patreon & receive exclusive benefits.

Want to inform others? Share the link to this story on social media & with your family & friends using the buttons below.