Farrer Seat Needs New Member After Resignation

The federal seat of Farrer needs a new representative because Sussan Ley has resigned. A by-election will happen soon. This vote is an early test for the new Liberal leader, Angus Taylor. Other political groups might try to win the seat.
By Newsroom | Politics, Australia |

A sudden resignation has triggered a crucial by-election for the federal seat of Farrer, presenting an immediate challenge for the new Liberal leader. The contest is expected to be complex, with multiple parties and candidates vying for a traditionally Liberal-held electorate. This situation unfolds against a backdrop of broader political shifts and internal party considerations, casting a spotlight on the Liberal Party's standing and strategy.

The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock - 1

The situation began when Sussan Ley, the incumbent for Farrer, resigned her position. This move will force a by-election, meaning voters in the Farrer electorate will soon cast their ballots to choose a new representative. The timing of this by-election is significant, as it places the new Liberal leader, Angus Taylor, under early pressure due to the party's recent polling numbers.

The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock - 2

  • Sussan Ley’s resignation has created the need for a by-election in the seat of Farrer.

  • The by-election is seen as an early test for the new Liberal leader, Angus Taylor.

  • The Liberal Party has held the seat of Farrer for a considerable period.

Contesting the Farrer Seat

The Farrer by-election is shaping up to be a competitive race. Reports indicate that parties such as One Nation and Climate 200 are preparing to participate. It remains unclear whether the Liberal and National parties will field separate candidates or present a united front. This decision, and the candidate selection process, could significantly influence the election's outcome. The potential for a "messy contest" is highlighted, suggesting a crowded field and a vigorous campaign.

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The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock - 3

  • Several parties are gearing up for the Farrer by-election.

  • The choice of candidates by the Coalition parties is a key point of uncertainty.

  • Observers predict a potentially complex and competitive election.

A History of Farrer Elections

Looking back, the Farrer electorate has a history of Liberal representation. In a past election, a candidate named John Roach, who was the Albury mayor and the Liberal candidate, travelled to the Netherlands. During his absence, Tim Fischer was selected to run for the Nationals. Despite initial skepticism about his speaking style, Fischer campaigned extensively, earning the nickname "Two Minute Tim." He ultimately won the Farrer seat. More recently, in the federal election where Labor won decisively, Sussan Ley, the Liberal incumbent, appeared to retain the seat of Farrer despite a swing against her. She secured a significant portion of the vote against independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe.

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The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock - 4

  • Past electoral contests in Farrer have seen notable candidates and outcomes.

  • Tim Fischer's campaign for the Nationals is recalled as a period of active campaigning.

  • Sussan Ley's recent retention of the seat, despite a general swing against her party, is noted.

Internal Party Dynamics

Recent reports suggest internal tensions within the Liberal Party regarding Farrer. Jean Haynes, identified as an ex-Liberal executive member, put her name forward to contest the seat. Subsequently, there were reports that the Farrer Federal Electorate Conference (FEC) intended to expel Ms. Haynes from the party. Additionally, concerns were raised about an "unusual influx" of new members in late 2020 or early 2021, with an inquiry hearing testimony from a Liberal Party member about these matters.

  • A former Liberal executive member, Jean Haynes, nominated for the Farrer seat.

  • There are reports of an effort by the Farrer FEC to expel Ms. Haynes.

  • Allegations regarding an unusual increase in new members have been a subject of inquiry.

Expert and Media Perspectives

The resignation of Sussan Ley and the subsequent by-election are viewed as a significant event for the Liberal Party. Analysts suggest that this by-election will serve as an early indicator of the party's direction and its ability to regain voter confidence under new leadership. The engagement of parties like One Nation and Climate 200 suggests a broader political contest beyond traditional party lines. The media coverage indicates a period of political uncertainty and strategic maneuvering for the Liberal Party as it faces the challenge of defending the Farrer seat.

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The following sources were used in this report:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is there a by-election in Farrer?
Sussan Ley, who held the seat, has resigned. This means voters must choose a new person to represent them.
Q: Who is the new Liberal leader?
The new leader of the Liberal Party is Angus Taylor. This election is an early challenge for him.
Q: Will other parties try to win the Farrer seat?
Yes, groups like One Nation and Climate 200 are expected to take part. It is not yet clear if the Liberal and National parties will work together.
Q: Has the Liberal Party always won in Farrer?
The Liberal Party has held the Farrer seat for a long time. However, elections can be competitive, and results can change.