Queensland’s Labor government must now decide whether to stay true to its working-class roots or make a green pivot.

A controversial coal mine expansion has cleared its penultimate hurdle, with only the state government’s green light needed.

It comes at a time when Labor voters in inner-city seats only recently abandoned the party in favour of federal Greens candidates.

“This is a test of the state government’s mettle,” Neil Breen said. “If you don’t think this is a challenge for the state government as it heads to a poll in two years, you’re kidding yourself.

“So what do you do about New Acland? Do you protect coal jobs, do you protect the industry, or do you protect your inner-city, green vote?”

Press PLAY below to hear Neil Breen’s comments in full 

A former Queensland speaker agreed both the major parties can’t rest on their laurels in the wake of the federal election result.

John Mickel said the loss of key seats to the Greens should be a wake-up call for all.

“The trend for the Greens has been in the inner-west to outer-west and that’s why you saw Ryan and to some extent, Brisbane central.”

With the Brisbane City Council local elections next on the cards in 2024, Mr Mickel said the Greens could be a strong threat.

“They are no threat to the Mayor but they are a threat to the LNP, somewhat to Labor in that inner-west, certainly.”

Press PLAY below to hear John Mickel’s analysis in full