Leader in Queensland Shows Continued Lack of Interest in Nuclear Energy

Queensland Premier-elect David Crisafulli has restated his position on federal Liberal Leader Peter Dutton’s nuclear energy proposal.

“It was ‘no’ before the election, and it’s ‘no’ after. I think that’s what people want to see from me,” Crisafulli told ABC Radio National on Oct. 28.

He emphasized his dedication to a respectful yet firm relationship with Canberra, regardless of who is in power.

“I will do that whether Mr. Albanese or Mr. Dutton is there,” Crisafulli said, also expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for a 20-minute congratulatory phone call and clarifying his long-standing friendship with Dutton.

“We’ve been friends for a long time. Friends can have differences of opinion,” he said.

Following Crisafulli’s win, Dutton congratulated him on social media, stating, “Queenslanders wanted change, and they’ve voted for it… I wish David and his new LNP government all the best on delivering a fresh start for Queenslanders.”

Dutton had promised to establish seven nuclear plants across Australia if the Coalition wins the federal election, declaring that Commonwealth laws could supersede state opposition.

“In the end, we want the same outcome—cheaper electricity for struggling families,” Dutton said.

Amid speculations of a policy divide, Crisafulli reiterated his stance.

“You know my position… it doesn’t mean we agree on everything. He supports the Broncos; I support the Cowboys—that’s how any relationship works,” he said.

Meanwhile, Labor’s federal Minister for Employment Murray Watt expressed concerns on social media regarding Dutton’s “vague plans” on nuclear power, urging clarity on costs and the potential impact on Medicare and other essential services.

“Vague plans are no substitute for concrete policies,” Watt stated.

Labor Ministers Critique Greens’ Performance

In a notable setback, the election witnessed swings against the Greens in the two seats it holds in Parliament. However, the party’s overall vote did not suffer as it garnered increased support across the state.

Nevertheless, their seats of Maiwar and South Brisbane hang in the balance with postal votes yet to be tallied.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and senior Labor ministers criticized the party, indicating that Queenslanders opposed the party’s perceived hindrance to the government’s Help to Buy and Build to Rent bills.

“People expected them to play a progressive role, not a blocking role,” Albanese said.

Meanwhile, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek criticized the Greens’ housing spokesperson for backing the CFMEU, currently under police investigation for links to criminal gangs.

“People were surprised to see Max Chandler-Mather defending the CFMEU on the back of a truck instead of supporting more affordable housing. They’re hindering housing and environmental reform,” she said.

Queensland Senator Watt noted that voters felt “buyer’s remorse,” stating that the party had sparked concerns over Palestine. Watt mentioned the opportunity for Labor to regain the Brisbane seat of Griffith and aim to secure Ryan and Brisbane—previously held by the Liberal Party.

Greens MPs have taken public stances endorsing violent protests in Melbourne during a defense expo, as well as the pro-Palestine student encampments at Australian universities.

The party also refrained from supporting a motion passed on Oct.7 to denounce the Hamas attack on Israel.

Greens Say Labor Abandoning Suburbs for City Voters

Greens Leader Adam Bandt defended his party, arguing that Labor neglected suburban and regional voters to compete with the Greens for inner-city seats.

“People need assistance; there’s a significant cost-of-living crisis,” he said.

“Labor concentrated efforts in specific seats instead of addressing the broader crisis.”

He expressed optimism regarding the Greens’ ability to retain their seats.

“We may end up with the two seats that we started with. The postal votes are still being counted,” he added.