Zempilas: No Worry Over One Nation, Focuses on Everyday Issues

0:00Western Australia's opposition leader, Basil Zimpilus, says he's not worried about the growing support for Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party ahead of. The 2029 state election. He acknowledges his liberal party will eventually decide whether to direct preferences to them or keep distance, but stresses there's plenty of time to figure it out. Earlier this weekend, liberals took a big hit in South Australia's election where One Nation outpulled them on primary boats. In Western Australia, past preference deals with One Nation have blown up before, like in 2017, when they backfired badly for both parties. Zimpilus, marking one year in the job after replacing Libby Metham, is focusing on everyday issues like housing shortages, health system fixes, and easing cost of living pressures. He supports net zero emissions by 2050, but puts energy reliability and affordability first. And he's pushing for more women in the party. Without ruling out quotas, his team claims credit for pressuring the government to drop

1:02a $1.6 billion convention center project last November, redirecting funds. To three major hospitals, he's proud of working with health workers and families to highlight the system's problems. Looking ahead, Zimpilus plans a steady rollout of policies over the next year or so, starting with more details after the halfway mark to the election. He admits there's a steep climb to form government in 2029, but believes is doable with clear values and targeted plans for West. Australians, I'm Corey with the story, and you've been listening to Sydney News today. AI Powered Local News