Labor Holds Seat Despite Swing
The Victorian Labor Party has retained the seat of Werribee in a by-election held on Saturday, although the result saw a significant swing against the party.
Labor candidate John Lister, a local teacher, emerged victorious with 28.9% of the primary vote. This represents a swing of over 10% against Labor compared to the 2022 election, where the party won the seat with a 10.9% margin.
Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin acknowledged the swing against Labor, stating that it sent a "very strong message" to the government about neglecting the needs of the west. He pledged that the opposition would continue to fight for the people of Werribee and the broader western region.
Victorian government minister Gabrielle Williams congratulated John Lister on his victory and acknowledged the need for the party to learn from the result. She emphasized the government's commitment to listening to the concerns of the Werribee community and working to address their needs.
John Lister expressed his gratitude to the community for entrusting him with their vote and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the needs of Werribee. He pledged to continue working tirelessly to ensure the community receives the resources and support it deserves.
The by-election was triggered by the retirement of former Labor treasurer Tim Pallas, who won 45% of the primary vote in the 2022 election. The result highlights the challenges facing the Labor government in the lead-up to the next state election, particularly in addressing the concerns of voters in Melbourne's outer west.