Miles confirmed a re-elected Labor government would go into debt to pay for the new policy “until we return the budget to surplus”.

Campaigning on the Gold Coast, Opposition Leader David Crisafulli said it was a “desperate” move on the part of the premier.

Loading

“How much taxes under Labor are going to go up to pay for this borrow to buy burgers in schools policy?” he said.

Miles, who assured the meals would be nutritious, said there was clear evidence nutrition directly affected children’s’ learning ability and their mental health. He said there would be a “2.5 to seven times” return delivered on the $1.4 billion price tag in the long run.

But South Brisbane Greens MP Amy MacMahon said the policy did not go far enough – she wanted to see it extended to high schools.

“Labor only shows up when their electorates start voting Greens – it’s two weeks from an election where they’re set to lose seats to the Greens, so now they’re on board?” she said.

“We know kids around grade eight to 10 are at high risk of disengagement from school, and that’s a major risk factor for offending, so Greens MPs will make sure free meals includes high schools to improve attendance and engagement, and reduce crime.”

Miles said there were no immediate plans for free lunches in high schools.

“If it’s successful, then in future years, you will have kids who have only ever known [free] school lunches, and that will be something for future governments to consider in future budgets,” he said.

“I imagine that by the time the Preps of 2025 have been through primary school, you might want to consider expanding it.”

- with Catherine Strohfeldt

Start the day with a summary of the most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.