Queenslanders are gearing up to cast their votes in the upcoming election to decide on the next premier, with the incumbent Labor party seeking to retain their government for a fourth term and the Liberal National Party hoping to upset their record. Around 3.7 million people are expected to cast their ballots in person or via post by the October 26 poll, with early voting beginning on Monday. Premier Steven Miles has unveiled a $1.4 billion commitment to provide free school lunches for all state primary students from prep to year six starting in 2025.
Despite polls indicating that the premier is likely to lose the election, with the LNP leading Labor 56 points to 44 on a two-party preferred basis, Premier Steven Miles appears undeterred. He remains committed to fighting to win the election and secure a mandate to govern the state in his own right, after taking over from Annastacia Palaszczuk in December. Labor has enjoyed nearly a decade in power since Palaszczuk ousted Campbell Newman in 2015 and Miles is eager to continue their legacy by implementing initiatives such as free school lunches.
LNP’s David Crisafulli is presenting himself as a fresh alternative for Queensland, after four years as opposition leader. He is promising a new start for the state and believes that Queenslanders are in need of a change in leadership. With the campaign at its halfway point, Crisafulli is focused on convincing voters that the LNP is the right choice to lead Queensland into the future. It remains to be seen whether his message will resonate with the electorate and if the LNP can overcome Labor’s strong grip on power.
Both parties are gearing up for a fierce battle in the lead up to the election, with key policy announcements and campaign events designed to sway voters in their favor. Premier Steven Miles is emphasizing the importance of free school lunches as a way to support families and ensure that every child has access to nutritious meals during the school day. Meanwhile, David Crisafulli is highlighting the need for a fresh start and a new direction for Queensland, positioning the LNP as the party of change.
As the election draws nearer, Queenslanders will have the opportunity to evaluate the competing visions and policies of the major parties and make an informed decision on who they believe is best placed to lead the state. The outcome of the election will shape the future of Queensland for the next term, with both Labor and the LNP eager to secure a mandate from the electorate. With early voting now open, the campaign is in full swing as both sides make their final pitches to voters in the lead up to polling day.
