What would a Katter/Rudd preference deal mean for Australia?

The mere possibility of this deal would send shivers through the Abbott camp.

It would mean that resources and time would need to be diverted from key battleground seats in other states to save electorates previously pencilled in as certain LNP victories.

That would give Rudd a chance to save a little more of the furniture across Australia. Especially if Katter's vote went Labor's way in other states too. Even though Katter's vote outside Queensland is likely to be very low, it still has the potential to pull a per cent away from the Coalition's primary vote and then direct a chunk of it to Labor via preferences. It could be crucial.

That is why this deal will make or break the election. If it's on, Rudd still has a chance. If it's not, it's goodbye Kevin.

However, there remain two big uncertainties.

Firstly, despite Katter's close connection and friendship with Rudd, nothing has been confirmed publicly.

Secondly, it's by no means certain that Katter's vote at the Queensland election will hold strong, or that voters will follow his how-to-vote cards.

The first question will be partially answered this Saturday. If Labor's senate group voting ticket in Queensland puts Katter before the Greens, it's a pretty sure sign Katter's how-to-vote cards on election day will favour Rudd.

The second question won't be answered until ballots are cast and counting starts.