Queensland Premier Campbell Newman has recruited high-profile federal Liberal George Brandis for a fundraising luncheon on the same day the prime minister insisted he didn't need any help from his Canberra counterparts.
Attorney-General Brandis is attending the $250-a-head Liberal National Party fundraiser in Brisbane on Wednesday.
Fellow Queensland-based federal LNP representatives James McGrath, Teresa Gambaro and Jane Prentice are also in attendance.
It comes after Prime Minister Tony Abbott kicked off his morning by making it clear he wouldn't be joining Premier Newman on the ever-shortening campaign trail.
Speaking at a press conference in Melbourne, Mr Abbott said he "absolutely respects Campbell's right to run his campaign" without the help of federal counterparts.
"I'm very conscious of the fact that Campbell wants to run his own race," he said.
"He is entitled as the premier of Queensland to run his own race, to run his own campaign."
Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten played a key role in the opening weeks of Labor's campaign, as he travelled to regional Queensland with state party leader Annastacia Palaszczuk.
However Mr Abbott's absence has come under increased scrutiny, with analysts suggesting Mr Newman has distanced himself from the prime minister over fears his low popularity rating might harm the premier's re-election chances.
Queensland goes to the polls on Saturday.
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