A new opinion poll has delivered a sobering assessment for the Liberal Party's new leader in Western Australia, revealing Basil Zempilas has made almost no impact on the political landscape since taking the helm. Meanwhile, Premier Roger Cook's government is confronting significant danger over the dominant issue of cost of living.
Poll Reveals Stagnant Political Landscape
The exclusive poll, conducted by Painted Dog Research for The West Australian between May 10 and 14, surveyed 1100 people across the state. It shows the Labor government maintains a commanding two-party-preferred lead of 55 per cent to 45 per cent. This figure is virtually unchanged from the 55-45 result recorded in a poll taken just before Mr Zempilas was elected leader in late April.
On the primary vote, Labor sits at 37 per cent, down one point from the previous survey. The Liberal Party's primary vote has inched up by a single point to 30 per cent. The Nationals are steady on 5 per cent, while the Greens have gained two points to reach 13 per cent.
Leadership Ratings and the Zempilas Challenge
The data indicates Mr Zempilas, the high-profile Perth Lord Mayor, has not yet managed to translate his personal recognition into a political turnaround for the Liberals. His net approval rating stands at minus 16 per cent, with 33 per cent of respondents viewing him favourably and 49 per cent unfavourably. A significant 18 per cent remain uncommitted.
In contrast, Premier Roger Cook holds a net approval of minus 3 per cent, with 43 per cent favourable and 46 per cent unfavourable. When voters were asked who would make the better Premier, Mr Cook led Mr Zempilas by 44 per cent to 32 per cent, with 24 per cent undecided.
Painted Dog Research director Matt Latham noted the findings suggest Mr Zempilas has "not moved the dial" and faces a substantial challenge in building his profile and convincing voters he is a viable alternative premier.
Cost of Living Looms as Government's Greatest Threat
While the overall numbers remain stable for Labor, the poll uncovers a major vulnerability for the Cook government. When asked to name the most important issue facing WA, a staggering 55 per cent of respondents identified cost of living. This dwarfs all other concerns, with health a distant second at 12 per cent and housing at 8 per cent.
More alarmingly for the government, only 28 per cent of voters believe the state is heading in the right direction on managing cost-of-living pressures. A majority of 53 per cent feel the state is on the wrong track regarding this critical issue. This sentiment presents a clear and present danger for Mr Cook, as economic anxiety continues to squeeze household budgets.
The poll also tested voter attitudes on other key issues. A majority of 52 per cent support the government's controversial Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act, with 48 per cent opposed. Additionally, 54 per cent back the rollout of the new firearm laws.
The results paint a picture of a political contest in its early stages. Basil Zempilas and the Liberal Party have so far failed to capitalise on potential government weaknesses, leaving Labor's formidable lead intact. However, the overwhelming voter focus on cost of living has handed Roger Cook a serious warning sign, indicating the next state election could be fiercely contested on economic grounds if current pressures persist.
