Bernardi looks to woo conservative votes in Toowoomba

CORY Bernardi and his Australian Conservatives are targeting Toowoomba’s conservative voters.

CORY Bernardi and his Australian Conservatives are targeting Toowoomba's conservative voters.

The controversial senator announced his party's imminent entry into Queensland politics in Toowoomba this afternoon, telling supporters it should be registered in the Sunshine State within eight weeks.

More than 100 people packed the main conference room at the Toowoomba Library to discuss Mr Bernardi's policy platform, including freedom of speech reforms, tighter border controls, traditional family values and small government reform.

He indicated that the Australian Conservatives would enter candidates for both Toowoomba North and South, saying it could help decide the vote.

Andrew Yong and Alex Todd at meeting with Australian Conservatives, Cory Bernardi in Toowoomba. July 2017. Picture: Bev Lacey

"We want to make sure the conservative voter is not taken for granted and that the team here, who are really enthusiastic, can channel electorates where we have a chance," he said.

In this seat (Toowoomba North), it's held by a couple of hundred votes - I think we can shape the outcome of that election.

If safe seats (like Toowoomba South) are taken for granted, then the voters in those seats will look for alternatives."

Supporters at the function, who consisted of former Family First members before the two parties merged, said they were excited to see what the Australian Conservatives could do to Queensland politics.

Toowoomba North MP Trevor Watts said he wasn't concerned with the Australian Conservatives eroding the LNP's strong supporter base in Toowoomba.

"My concern is to represent the people of Toowoomba North to make sure we get good government back in Queensland," he said.

Australian Conservatives, Cory Bernardi in Toowoomba. July 2017. Picture: Bev Lacey

Originally published as Bernardi looks to woo conservative votes in Toowoomba