Queensland Labor MP to Defend Marginal Seat After Electoral Redraw

Meaghan Scanlon, a prominent Labor frontbencher in Queensland, has confirmed her intention to recontest the Gold Coast seat of Gaven at the upcoming state election. This decision comes despite significant changes to the electorate's boundaries following a review by the Queensland Redistribution Commission, which released its findings in June. The redraw has fueled speculation about Scanlon's political future, with some suggesting she might seek a more secure seat.

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I know there has been many in Meaghan's ear trying to encourage her to look to a safer seat elsewhere, but to be honest I don't think Meaghan ever really entertained that idea.

Scanlon, who currently holds Gaven by a margin of less than one percent, is Labor's sole representative on the Gold Coast. The seat is set for substantial alterations ahead of the 2028 state election. Opposition Leader Steven Miles publicly announced Scanlon's candidacy at the Labor state conference, addressing the rumors directly. He stated that while many encouraged her to consider safer electorates, Scanlon remained committed to Gaven.

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I am very confident, not only can she win but she will win.

"I am very confident, not only can she win but she will win," Miles declared, underscoring his belief in Scanlon's electoral strength. Scanlon, often considered a potential future leader of the party, was first elected to Gaven in 2017 and has served in ministerial roles, including environment and housing, under previous Labor governments. The Redistribution Commission noted that Gaven required significant boundary adjustments as it was below the required quota and projected to fall further.

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I've been underestimated every time I've run. My focus is getting the support of Gold Coasters to win. I don't give up when things get tough, I'm going to stay and fight.

Scanlon expressed her dedication to the electorate where she grew up, stating, "I don't give up when things get tough, I'm going to stay and fight." She has previously faced underestimation in her campaigns and is focused on securing the support of Gold Coast residents. Her decision to remain in Gaven is seen as a signal of Labor's commitment to the region, particularly its northern areas. Former Labor MP John Mickel commented that Scanlon's departure would have significantly amplified the LNP's advantage on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, making a state election victory extremely difficult for Labor.

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If she had abandoned that, the maths for Labor to win a state election are simply enormous. It is sending a signal that Labor is serious about the Gold Coast, particularly that northern end.