When Annastacia Palaszczuk led a Labor opposition to victory in the 2015 Queensland election, she was dubbed an 'accidental premier'. However, she went on to become a three-term premier who ultimately left office on her own terms.
Resilience Forged Through Personal Loss
In conversation with political editor Tom McIlroy, Palaszczuk reveals how her resilience was shaped by profound personal loss, including miscarriage and IVF treatments, which she details in her new memoir. She describes these experiences as formative in building her strength as a leader.
Disappointment at Policy Reversals
Palaszczuk also expresses her dismay at watching Premier David Crisafulli's government dismantle her renewable energy policies, calling it 'heartbreaking'. She attributes Pauline Hanson's enduring political career to her ability to connect with ordinary Australians, describing her as 'relatable'.
Note: This interview was recorded before police charged Palaszczuk's partner, Vahid Reza Adib, with rape, sexual assault, and deprivation of liberty. Adib has been granted police bail and will appear in court at a later date. He made no comment outside the police station on Friday afternoon.
Read more: Queensland's renewable energy 'whiplash': how the shift from coal stalled in Australia's most polluting state.
