‘Tomorrow Marks the Start of a New Chapter’: Centre-Right LNP Ends Decade of Labor Government in Queensland

The 41st premier of Queensland will be Liberal National Party (LNP) Leader David Crisafulli, despite Labor’s effective late-term strategies that countered the expected “blue wave.”

Although Labor did not face the crushing defeat initially forecasted, the LNP will still be able to establish a majority government.

By 11 p.m. on Oct. 26, the LNP had secured 49 seats – surpassing the requisite 47 threshold to form a government, whereas Labor had 31 seats.

Overall, the LNP garnered a 6 percent swing, with several Brisbane constituencies witnessing swings of around 10 percent against incumbent Labor MPs.

However, it was the pivotal coastal electorates that favored the LNP, securing its forthcoming triumph with three electorates in Townsville likely shifting from Labor to LNP.

In a surprising turn of events, the Greens seem to have lost their only two seats in the Legislative Assembly.

Currently, the LNP’s Natasha Winters is engaged in a close contest with the Greens’ incumbent Michael Berkman, and Labor seems to have reclaimed the South Brisbane inner city electorate with support from LNP preferences.

One Nation did not secure any seats despite fielding numerous candidates, and its primary hope of Keppel appears likely to be won by the LNP.

The Katter’s Australian Party, focused on north Queensland and regional areas, appears set to retain three seats, with the fourth (Mirani) in a tight battle against the local LNP candidate.

Crisafulli Talking Second Term

Upon assuming office, Premier Crisafulli wasted no time in planning for the future, expressing his ambition for a second term.

If achieved, this would mark the first time since 1986 that an LNP leader secures a second term.

Addressing his supporters on election night, he stated, “Tonight, Queenslanders have chosen hope over fear, a fresh beginning, and a majority LNP government.”

Crisafulli expressed gratitude towards outgoing Premier Steven Miles for his dedication and hard work, paying tribute to the Labor MPs who lost their seats.

He reassured Queenslanders that the outcomes of the new government would be evident without delay, emphasising plans to revitalize the state.

Characterizing the victory as the “biggest achievement for the LNP in over a decade,” Crisafulli outlined his priorities to tackle adult crime issues and reduce ambulance ramping in hospitals, among other initiatives.

In addition to focusing on core pillars such as crime, health, housing, and cost of living, Crisafulli pledged to enhance infrastructure, including roads, dams, and hospitals.

Regarding Labor’s abortion campaign tactics, he indicated that such fear-mongering would not be viable in the future, ensuring the delivery of a successful second term for the LNP.

He concluded his speech with a call to action, stating, “Tomorrow, we get to work.”

Miles Promises to Hold LNP Accountable

Outgoing Premier Steven Miles, addressing his supporters, expressed optimism despite the challenging election for Labor.

While initially skeptical about the LNP forming a majority government, Miles acknowledged the magnitude of the campaign and stood by his efforts both during the campaign and his tenure as premier.

He praised outgoing MPs and thanked those who lost seats, affirming his commitment to the party’s strategy, on-ground campaigning, and policy implementation.

Miles highlighted various initiatives introduced during his tenure, including relief packages, transportation subsidies, and free school lunches, emphasizing the significant relief provided at the expense of corporate entities.

Instead of congratulating his successor on the victory, Miles critiqued Crisafulli’s approach, insinuating avoidance of critical issues and posing questions about future policy decisions.

Assuming the role of Labor and opposition leader, Miles vowed to continue advocating for the party’s agenda and holding the LNP accountable regardless of the election outcomes.