Ipswich West has fallen from Labor’s hands for only the fourth time in the electorate’s 64-year history, with Ipswich Show Society president Darren Zanow claiming the win for the Liberal National Party following Saturday’s by-election.
“I want to thank everybody who has put their faith in me,” Zanow said at a press conference on Sunday morning.
“I want them to know that their priorities are our priorities.”
The electorate in Labor heartland had been held by Jim Madden from 2015 through to his retirement from State politics in January.
Zanow’s win by a 2.9 per cent margin comes off the back of a significant 18 per cent swing against Queensland Labor and dents the party’s State Election chances.
His campaign was focused on making the community safer and working on implementing the Liberal National Party’s proposals that include introducing consequences for actions and improving the Youth Justice Act, as well as providing residents with easier access to health services and working harder for Queenslanders.
“We will move forward on these issues and take them to Labor as we head towards the Election in October,” Zanow said.
“It’s simply not good enough.”
Queensland Labor has acknowledged the defeat in Ipswich West, with Premier Steven Miles stating that the party would learn from it and continue to work hard for the people of Queensland.
The by-election result in Ipswich West is seen as an important indicator for the upcoming State Election, with the Liberal National Party gaining momentum and Labor facing a tough battle to retain power.
State Opposition leader David Crisafulli said regarding the result.
“Queenslanders were asked to send a message to a bad State Government in the Ipswich West by-election, and they did that,” he said.
“I want every Queenslander to know that we redouble our efforts from today and we will continue to deliver for them into the future.”
Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Jarrod Bleijie added that the win in Ipswich West was the next step towards delivering an effective alternative for Government.
“At the polling booths the message was clear, people are struggling, and they are hurting,” Bleijie said.
“To see the arrogance from the Deputy Premier, Cameron Dick, on tv not listening to the result they simply do not get it.”
“This is the arrogance of the Labor Government, and it is a Government that is rotting.
“Stephen Miles is not up to the job and the people of Ipswich West have spoken with their votes…”
