Queensland leaders are coming together to back the vision of Brisbane 2032. To her colleague Anika Wells, it’s the “north star” and the “zenith” that inspires everyone’s work. The Olympic opportunity The fervor and optimism that typically accompanies any Olympic Games unifies local leaders. Such unity is particularly notable in light of the expansive electoral changes that have rocked the state.
In the wake of David Crisafulli’s leadership victory in the Queensland state election last October, collaboration between the state and federal governments has gained momentum. Crisafulli, who leads the Liberal National Party (LNP), has worked effectively with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor government during his first six months in office. The two leaders appeared together to proclaim their funding deal for public schools. This decision further demonstrates their deep commitment to advancing equitable education and building livable infrastructure across the region.
A New Era for Queensland Politics
At left, Anika Wells represents Lilley, in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. … She’s been the most vociferous out there on the government’s behalf, touting the possible benefits of having such strong Queensland representation in federal politics. She noted that Queensland has always been powerful, but too often didn’t have the numbers within the federal Labor party.
“For too long now Queensland has been long on influence but short on numbers in the federal parliamentary Labor Party,” – Jim Chalmers
Chalmers, and Wells with him, is convinced that the recent electoral success has altered this dynamic. At least seven new Labor MPs from Queensland will be joining their ranks in Canberra. By all accounts, both leaders are optimistic about the road ahead.
“Now we are long on influence and longer on numbers so that’s a very good thing, and we hope to see that represented in the decision making of the government going forward,” – Jim Chalmers
Now it is reinforced by the potential addition of Ali France, who overthrew LNP leader Peter Dutton from his marginal seat of Dickson. Her presence at the Brisbane Labour Day march reminds party insiders and other observers of her loyalty to the party and loyalty to its grassroots constituents.
Challenges Ahead for the Opposition
Though these gains on balance look favorable for Labor, Crisafulli was the first to recognize there will be a battle ahead for an opposition. He refused to provide detailed criticisms on Peter Dutton and the Coalition’s failures. He added they must undergo some deep soul searching.
“At the moment the federal Liberal and National parties have got soul searching to do, that’s part of the democratic process,” – David Crisafulli
Crisafulli is adamant that a frank assessment of previous approaches is needed, if we ever want to make real progress. He stated that “there will be others who do a post-mortem on that,” indicating an awareness of the need for reflection within his party.
Looking Forward to Brisbane 2032
As Queensland leaders turned their gaze toward Brisbane 2032, Wells used the opportunity to reaffirm its importance to the state. As she put it, that was a seminal moment that should energize advocates and dollars in communities—not just here in Chicago, but all across the country.
“Obviously Brisbane 2032 is our north star, it’s the zenith we’re all working towards,” – Anika Wells
Seeing both political parties aware of the significance of this rare occurrence, unity and advance planning will be critical. The Albanese government is reportedly going so far as to contemplate a post-election cabinet reshuffle, which would increase Queensland’s preeminence in national decision-making.
