Over the years there has been a lot of "level shifting" claims on issues, I am always very sceptical. Yes, the NSW ALP had a lot of baggage, but the NSW Libs have been doing very badly for years--it is apparently the first swing to them since 1988. If the NSW Libs simply weren't credible, then even a beleagured government can hold on to much of its vote.

I do think having one side in at one level helps the other at the other, but that is more a generic factor.

Besides, I would be a little suprised if a significant fraction of ALP voters didn't dislike the WorkChoices legislation and took an opportunity to express it to a pollster.