Political editor Charles Croucher from 9News has expressed surprise over the focus of Labor’s campaign strategy, noting that the election’s outcome won’t hinge on their current approach. He highlighted that Labor is primarily targeting three Greens-held seats located in the city’s core. The strategy appears to be part of an offensive by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aimed at regaining seats lost in previous elections, especially in anticipation of possible setbacks in New South Wales and Victoria.
Croucher remarked that Queensland has not been a reliable region for Labor in recent elections, noting its past support for Kevin Rudd in 2007 has since diminished. Brisbane, where Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was also campaigning, has become a focal point, with Dutton acknowledging the election date but hinting at a general apathy among Australians regarding the campaign. He stressed the necessity for his party to articulate a clear vision to engage voters.
Accompanying the political skirmish, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher affirmed Labor’s readiness to leverage the positive momentum from their recent budget in the campaign. She expressed confidence in the party’s organisation and record of accomplishments.
The current parliamentary landscape has Labor holding 78 seats in the House of Representatives, the Coalition with 55, while minor parties and independents control another 16. As the campaign progresses, both major parties are intensifying their efforts, particularly in Brisbane, to secure critical support ahead of the forthcoming election.