With a hung parliament the most likely outcome from Saturday’s election, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and deputy PM Barnaby Joyce have reached out to the new cross-bench, including Kennedy MP Bob Katter.
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Mr Turnbull and Mr Joyce said they were trying to establish “rapport and common ground” with all independents and minor parties except the Greens.
“We have a lot in common particularly with Cathy McGowan and Bob Katter - a lot of common interests,” Mr Turnbull said.
Mr Joyce said he had known Mr Katter a long time.
“I don’t hold for one second that that gives you any sway or favour; it’s just a fact of how human beings get along,” Mr Joyce said.
The cross-benchers have all ruled being speaker in the new parliament, with Mr Katter admitting he was in a powerful position.
“Upon this base, if the Australian people have delivered a small modicum of power, that power will be used to create a happy and a prosperous North Queensland,” Mr Katter said.
“The financial oppression of the elderly, the struggling abandoned young families will be addressed.
“We will be saying our prayers to the good Lord and we hope we can get enlightenment through to the people to have to date exercised power in Canberra.”
LNP Kennedy candidate Jonathan Pavetto has been silent since the election but Labor man Norm Jacobsen said on Sunday he was still hopeful of finishing second.
“Labor in Kennedy is back on the map with a huge swing,” Mr Jacobsen said.
“Thanks to everybody for supporting me. I traveled just over 62000km in just under 12 months by road and have made some great friends. Thanks to all the Labor team for a great effort.”
Mr Jacobsen’s hope of finishing second seems over optimistic as counting continues.
At the time of writing, 104 out of 108 Kennedy booths have been counted.
Mr Katter has 29,121 votes, Mr Pavetto has 23,101, Mr Jacobsen is a long way back in third with 13,960, the Greens’ Valerie Weier has 3405 and Family First’s Donna Maree Gallehawk has 2639.