Role and Powers of the Premier of Queensland

The Premier of Queensland is the head of government of the Australian state of Queensland, analogous to a prime minister at state level.

Key Responsibilities

• Leads the Executive: Chairs Cabinet, sets policy agenda, coordinates ministers
• Party Leader: Typically leads the majority party/coalition in the Legislative Assembly (currently Labor)
• Represents Queensland: In National Cabinet, Council for the Australian Federation, and international engagements
• Appoints Ministers: Recommends ministerial appointments/dismissals to the Governor
• Parliamentary Leadership: Advises Governor on dissolution/elections; manages government business in the House

Current Premier

Steven Miles (Australian Labor Party) has served since December 2023, succeeding Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Constitutional Context

Queensland has a unicameral parliament (Legislative Assembly only). The Premier must maintain confidence of the Assembly. The Governor (King's representative) exercises formal powers on the Premier's advice.