The Queensland government, led by the Liberal National Party (LNP), marks its first year in office with a series of ambitious policies and mixed reviews from stakeholders. From crime legislation to cost-of-living measures, the administration’s efforts have sparked both praise and criticism across various sectors.
Crime and Justice: A Tough Stance
The LNP’s election promise of “adult crime, adult time” led to the enactment of the Making Queensland Safer Laws by Christmas. While this move was welcomed by some, it drew criticism from human rights advocates who argue for a more “child-centred approach” to youth crime.
University of Queensland criminologist Renee Zahnow criticized the government’s rhetoric on youth crime, grading it an “F” for its media language. “I don’t believe we should get harsher on youth crime; I think that has been a really negative thing,” Zahnow stated. However, she acknowledged the government’s support of early intervention programs with a “tentative A.”
Public sentiment appears to favor the government’s approach, as noted by political analyst Mr. Samaras. “Most Queenslanders that we speak to are quite comfortable with the response,” he said. Despite this, the opposition has questioned the selective data points highlighted by Premier David Crisafulli, particularly the exclusion of “other theft” statistics.
In July, Mr. Crisafulli reported a 5.7% decrease in victim numbers in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year.
Cost of Living: Struggles and Opportunities
The cost of living remains a pressing issue for many Queenslanders. The LNP’s pre-election promises were overshadowed by Labor’s significant financial incentives, such as $1,000 energy rebates. In office, the LNP opted for permanent reductions in public transport fares and targeted relief through school and sports vouchers.
Aimee McVeigh, CEO of the Queensland Council of Social Services (QCOSS), believes the government “could do more” to alleviate financial pressures. “There are still so many Queenslanders struggling with the cost of living,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for a strategic vision to support vulnerable families.
Mr. Samaras pointed out that inflation pressures remain the top concern for residents, suggesting the government would face criticism if assessed on this issue alone.
Health Sector: Progress and Challenges
The abolition of payroll tax for general practitioners has been hailed as a significant achievement by the Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ). Queensland president Nick Yim also praised the Surgery Connect initiative but noted it as a “short-term fix” for the state’s healthcare challenges.
In June, elective surgeries were paused due to overwhelmed emergency departments, highlighting ongoing issues within the health system. Dr. Yim emphasized the importance of building and maintaining the health workforce, stating it as “the number one thing” AMAQ is collaborating on with the government.
“One of the big things that we are crying out for… is the numbers — we need more numbers on the ground,” Dr. Yim said.
Housing and Infrastructure: Ambitious Goals
The Crisafulli government has set an ambitious target of 1 million new homes by 2044, including 53,500 social and affordable properties. Initiatives like the shared equity scheme Boost to Buy and the removal of stamp duty for first-time buyers aim to stimulate the housing market.
However, the growing waitlist for social housing, which increased by 10,000 to over 56,000 people, raises concerns. Aimee McVeigh of QCOSS commended the housing goals but criticized the removal of targets for social housing in key areas.
Infrastructure plans for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games have also been a focal point, with the government reversing its stance on new stadiums. Political scientist Paul Williams praised the LNP’s road map, awarding it an “A” for progress.
Energy and Environment: Mixed Reviews
In the realm of energy and environment, the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) awarded the government a “B” for its first-year efforts. The energy road map, however, has been criticized by the Queensland Conservation Council (QCC) for not aligning with emission reduction targets.
Energy Minister David Janetzki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 75% by 2035 and achieving net zero by 2050. Meanwhile, the QCC continues to push for stronger climate action and conservation strategies, particularly concerning the Great Barrier Reef.
“The problem is our laws continue to allow for clearing in our reef catchments,” QCC director David Copeman stated.
As the Queensland government enters its second year, the balance between fulfilling election promises and addressing emerging challenges will be crucial. Stakeholders across sectors remain watchful, eager to see how the administration adapts its strategies to meet the needs of its constituents.
