The incumbent Labor government experienced a 6 percent swing against it, leading to its end after 3 terms in power. Despite Labor’s late-term campaign efforts to counter the predicted “blue wave,” Liberal National Party (LNP) Leader David Crisafulli will assume office as the 41st premier of Queensland. The LNP managed to secure enough seats to form a majority government, with 49 seats compared to Labor’s 31 as of 11 p.m. on Oct. 26. The LNP gained a 6 percent swing, particularly in Brisbane where numerous seats recorded swings of around 10 percent against sitting Labor MPs. Crucial coastal electorates swung in favor of the LNP, securing its victory. The Greens lost their only two seats in the Legislative Assembly, while One Nation did not win any seats despite running several candidates. Crisafulli expressed his intentions to aim for a second term, emphasizing hope, a fresh start, and the return of Queensland to a powerhouse state. He highlighted his plans to address crime, health, housing, and the cost of living, as well as infrastructure development. Outgoing Premier Steven Miles promised to hold the LNP accountable despite the election outcome.
“The election was always going to be a tough one for Labor, but I have no regrets about my campaign or my last 10 months as premier,” Miles stated.
He congratulated outgoing MPs and expressed gratitude to those who lost their seats.
“I put my all into this election,” he said.
Miles primarily focused on Labor’s strategic use of door-knocking and policy to mitigate a more significant defeat in the state.
Treasurer Cameron Dick mentioned that the party reached out to nearly 250,000 voters through door-knocking during the campaign. Aged Care Minister Anika Wells shared that the local Labor candidate in Sandgate door-knocked 8,000 homes.
“I have never seen a state Labor campaign as well-organized as this one. I want to thank my Deputy Premier Cameron Dick,” Miles acknowledged, also praising the Queensland Trade Union for its support.
“I said from the start that I would give it my all, and I stand by that tonight,” Miles affirmed.
He highlighted some of the measures he had implemented or promised to introduce as premier, such as $1,000 power bill credits, cheaper car registration, kids’ sports vouchers, 50-cent fares, and free school lunches.
Instead of congratulating his successor on the victory, Miles criticized Crisafulli for running a limited campaign, avoiding discussions on various topics.
“Queenslanders know where I stand and what I believe in,” Miles stated.
He questioned whether Crisafulli would allow a conscience vote on the Katters abortion bill, potentially stripping Queensland women of their rights.
Hinting at his intention to remain the Labor and opposition leader, Miles pledged to continue advocating for Queensland’s interests and holding the LNP accountable.
“Regardless of the final seat count, I will continue to fight for our Labor agenda and ensure the LNP is held accountable,” he affirmed.
