The thing with Barry is that he is using a tried and tested safe but effective strategy which ironically holds a great deal risk. All it takes is one stuff up from the opposition (think John Brogden - although I will concede he was a douche anyway) and the tables will be turned massively. Most people seem to be set on voting for him by default - which is a shame because I think he's the safe pair of hands this state so desperately needs. He also has some good policies which I think are way overdue. For example;
In government, the NSW Liberals & Nationals will introduce a range of practical measures to make housing more affordable. Our $630 million Action Plan to Make Sydney Livable Again includes:
* repealing NSW Labor’s $429 million ‘Homebuyers Tax’ on property purchases;
* providing a Regional Relocation Grant of $7,000 to encourage ‘whole of NSW’ growth;
* extending stamp duty concessions to Empty Nesters who are over 55 years old, who choose to move from a house to a smaller dwelling; and
* accelerating land release and reducing infrastructure costs on new developments.
He's definitely on the right track with the relocation grant, although I think it's going to take a bit more to encourage 'whole of NSW' growth. Traditionally we've been a country attracted to the coast and breaking this attraction requires investment in more infastructure away from the main cities. Also, I think stamp duty concessions for over 55 year old's is something that is long overdue along with a decent rise in the pension (even though we're currently in state political territory).
Also, I think we'll end up seeing a different side to him anyway when he gets into power to be honest.