Local mayor to become Labor candidate in key seat of Parramatta

With long-term Liberal MP Geoff Lee retiring at the next election, Labor’s candidate for Parramatta will have an interesting fight ahead of her at the next election.

Lord Mayor of Parramatta Donna Davis has been unveiled as Labor’s new candidate for the seat. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Damian Shaw

Outspoken Mayor Donna Davis will be Labor’s candidate for the Western Sydney seat of Parramatta — an electorate to watch come election time with long-term Liberal MP Geoff Lee retiring from politics.

Leader Chris Minns will announce Ms Davis’s candidacy on Wednesday alongside committing to building a new high school in Melrose Park in the first term if Labor wins government.

The party also committed to a full upgrade of Melrose Park Public School which will include the creation of a onsite public preschool.

Labor had vowed to accompany all school upgrades with onsite preschools in its budget reply last year.

Ms Davis said she had lived and worked in Parramatta for decades and was looking forward to representing the seat in March.

Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader, and Donna Davis, Lord Mayor for Parramatta. Picture: Monique Harmer

“I love Parramatta. I have lived and worked here for decades, and raised my family here with my husband Michael,” she said.

“I’m determined to ensure Parramatta has the necessary infrastructure to support our growing and thriving community, including housing, schools, parks, playgrounds and transport.

“After 12 long years, it’s time for a change of Government in NSW and a fresh start for Parramatta.”

Mr Minns said 11,000 new homes were expected in the local community over coming years.

“As the son of a public school teacher, I know how important a good education is,” he said.

“NSW Labor has already promised a new primary school in the Carter Street precinct, and we’ll build a new high school in Melrose Park.”