Qlders in no doubt about election power

Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott have left Queenslanders in no doubt about the crucial role they'll play in the election outcome.

Both leaders spent more time in the Sunshine State than anywhere else in the first week of the campaign.

Mr Abbott used his visits to say his government's first act would be to repeal the carbon tax. He'll also order a judicial inquiry into Labor's disastrous home insulation program.

Mr Rudd used his time spruiking his credentials as the local member for Griffith and telling voters why they should fear Mr Abbott, based on the way the Queensland premier had cut jobs.

But it was a blast from the past that grabbed the most headlines.

Mr Rudd's announcement that former premier Peter Beattie will contest the seat of Forde has been variously described as brilliant or desperate.

Mr Beattie, a Rudd critic and Gillard backer, says he's doing it for the good of Queensland.