'He let himself down': Campbell Newman criticises David Crisafulli's campaign strategy

Former Queensland premier Campbell Newman has criticized David Crisafulli's campaign strategy, saying he "let himself down" by focusing on personal attacks.

Newman, who was premier from 2012 to 2015, said Crisafulli should have focused on policy instead of attacking his opponent, Labor leader Annastacia Palaszczuk.

"He let himself down by going so negative," Newman said. "He should have focused on policy and on what he would do if he was elected premier."

Newman's criticism comes as Crisafulli's campaign is struggling in the polls. The latest Newspoll, published on Tuesday, has Labor leading the LNP 53-47 on a two-party-preferred basis.

Newman said he believes Crisafulli can still win the election, but he needs to change his strategy.

"He needs to focus on policy and on what he would do if he was elected premier," Newman said. "He also needs to be more positive and upbeat."

Crisafulli has defended his campaign strategy, saying he is running a "positive and optimistic" campaign.

"I'm not going to apologize for holding Annastacia Palaszczuk to account for her record," Crisafulli said.

"She has failed Queenslanders on health, on education, and on the economy. I'm going to keep highlighting her failures and offering Queenslanders a better choice."

The Queensland election will be held on October 31.