Labor's new Fairfax candidate calls it quits

Labor's candidate for the seat of Fairfax to take on Ted O'Brien at the next federal election has withdrawn her nomination

FAMILY FIRST: Labor's Fairfax candidate Michelle Dracoulis has put aside her political aspirations to focus on her family.

LABOR'S candidate for the seat of Fairfax to take on Ted O'Brien at the next federal election has withdrawn her nomination.

Michelle Dracoulis was touted by Labor as someone who had true Labor values and always put her community first.

Now, after just a few months in the role, the Nambour photographer is putting her family first.

"As a mother of four children and a small business owner, I've found it increasingly challenging to balance this with the strong community-based campaign the people of Fairfax deserve,” Ms Dracoulis said in a statement.

"It's simply not my time, and like any parent I must put the needs of my family first.”

"I've spoken to so many people in recent months who have told me the LNP have turned their backs on our community.

"I know we need a member of parliament who will spend every waking moment fighting for better schools and hospitals.

"Only Bill Shorten and a Labor member of parliament can secure the best possible future for the hardworking people of Fairfax.”

Ms Dracoulis thanked the community and local branch members for their support.

"I'll be doing everything I can to get a Labor candidate elected,” she said.

When endorsed, Federal Labor Leader Bill Shorten welcomed Ms Dracoulis to his team.

"Michelle Dracoulis is a local community champion and I'm pleased to welcome her to the team,” he said.

"Her experience juggling a young family with her own small business means she understands the bread and butter issues for families on the Sunshine Coast.”

ALP Queensland State Secretary Julie-Ann Campbell also said Ms Dracoulis represented true Labor values.

"The people of Fairfax really can't cop a break,” Ms Campbell said.

"They've gone from Clive Palmer to Ted O'Brien, both grand-standers intent on creating headlines rather than standing up for local people.

"The Sunshine Coast and hinterland needs a representative who'll stand up to Canberra and fight for local issues.

"Michelle Dracoulis has the right priorities and drive to get that job done for Fairfax.”

The Labor party has not released a name as Ms Dracoulis's successor.