Qld election 2024: LNP shuns briefings amid confidentiality fears

Only two LNP frontbenchers have sought high-level briefings from government bureaucrats just three weeks before the election due to sensational concerns.

Shadow treasurer David Janetzki and Opposition health spokeswoman Ros Bates

Only two LNP frontbenchers have sought high-level briefings from government bureaucrats just three weeks before the election due to sensational concerns about confidentiality.

The Courier-Mail can reveal only shadow treasurer David Janetzki and Opposition health spokeswoman Ros Bates have sought to meet with public servants about the operation of their departments.

None of the LNP’s 17 other frontbenchers, including Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, have written to Labor ministers, who then notify the premier, asking him to arrange a meeting with independent public servants.

Receiving a briefing is not essential, however it is designed to give the alternative government an understanding of the operational matters ongoing within a department.

It is convention for the shadow treasurer to get an economic update from Queensland Treasury.

The LNP noted Ms Bates was attempting to get the latest government health data.

Beyond the pair, the spokesman argued it was not usual for opposition spokespeople to meet with bureaucrats so close to an election.

Deputy Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie feared leaks if Liberal National MPs spoke candidly with directors-general.

Deputy Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie. Picture: Liam Kidston

“Steven Miles is becoming more desperate by the day and this attempt can be tossed straight onto his growing pile of desperate distractions,” he said.

“Shadow ministers have had briefings across government throughout the course of the term, as is normal process.

“The Opposition is also grateful to the whistleblowers within the public service who have helped inform our plan.”

However after The Courier-Mail’s inquiry Mr Bleijie acknowledged other LNP frontbenchers could ask for briefings.

“Other shadow ministers will seek briefings through caretaker as needed, for example we would love to know what the real cost of Labor’s Pioneer Valley pumped hydro scheme and what its impact on Queenslanders’ energy bills will be,” he said.

The LNP has prosecuted the government’s record on crime, housing and youth justice, yet its frontbenchers likely to be responsible for those areas have not requested a meeting with the departments that would be tasked with implementing their policies.

“David Crisafulli thinks he can slip into government without revealing his plans for Queensland’s future,” Premier Steven Miles said.

“His front bench don’t care about delivering for Queenslanders and are too lazy to even meet with department heads.

“The LNP are only interested in slick slogans rather than governing.”

Polling indicates the government will change on October 26 with the most recent Newspoll showing the LNP leading Labor 55-45 per cent on a two-party-preferred basis.