Liberal Party changes Victoria’s Indi electorate’s how-to-vote card

The Liberal Party will change its how-to-vote cards in an independent-held seat after it was revealed a candidate was involved in a 2021 civil court case.

The Liberal Party will overhaul its how-to-vote cards in an independent-held seat following revelations a candidate was found guilty of “unconscionable” conduct.

The Opposition released its card for the regional Victorian seat of Indi, which is held by Independent MP Helen Haines, last week.

The original card recommends voters preference independent candidate Mark McFarlane in fifth spot, ahead of Dr Haines, out of nine nominees.

However, Mr McFarlane was in 2021 involved in a civil court case with his elderly mother that some lawyers regard as a “textbook example of elder abuse”.

A court found the transfer of a Glenrowan property to Mr McFarlane, from his mother, occurred by “undue influence and was unconscionable”.

Independent candidate for Indi Mark McFarlane.

A Liberal Party spokesperson said to discourage informal votes, parties number every box on their how-to-vote cards.

After this publication questioned the party about its decision, a spokesperson said: “Upon becoming aware of Mr McFarlane’s unacceptable actions and views, we will now be putting him last on our how-to-vote cards”.

Independent member for Indi Dr Helen Haines. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Dr Haines said she was pleased the Liberals had decided to rectify their mistake and hoped that others followed suit.

“The Liberals, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation and Family First failed to do their homework when deciding their preferences,” she said.

“The conduct found by the court is completely unacceptable in every situation, particularly from someone seeking to represent our community in Parliament.

“The people of Indi deserve to know the true character of the people seeking their vote.”

Originally published as Liberal Party changes Victoria’s Indi electorate’s how-to-vote card