Election 2022: Andrew Constance ‘disappointed’ after AEC rules out Gilmore recount

Liberal Andrew Constance says he is “disappointed” by the Australian Electoral Commission’s decision to rule out a recount in the ultra-marginal seat of Gilmore.

Liberal Andrew Constance says he is “disappointed” by the Australian Electoral Commission’s decision to rule out a recount in the ultra-marginal seat of Gilmore, with official proceedings previously scuttled by recount deliberations due to go ahead.

The electoral body was due to formally declare Labor’s Fiona Phillips the winner of the South Coast seat at 2pm on Tuesday, but shortly before midday announced that the event would be postponed while it considered the application for a recount lodged by Mr Constance.

Mr Constance said on Wednesday the AEC had informed him that it had considered his request, but would not be directing a recount.

“Naturally, I am disappointed and will review the Commissioner’s reasons,” he said.

“In the meantime, I would like to thank our community, everyone that has offered support, and our many volunteers.”

On Tuesday, Mr Constance had stated that as counting progressed over the past weeks, his scrutineers had raised concerns in relation to certain aspects of the ballot process, particularly the scrutiny of informal votes.

“Given the close result, I believe there are strong grounds for a recount,” Mr Constance said.

NSW Labor had previously announced that the incumbent Ms Phillips had won the seat by just over 300 votes based on its calculations after a late-game surge in votes as the AEC began counting declaration and out-of-town votes.

Labour candidate for Gilmore Fiona Phillips pictured at pre-poll in Nowra. Picture: Jonathan Ng

In a Twitter post, Ms Phillips said: “The AEC have advised me this morning that Andrew Constance’ application for a recount in Gilmore has been denied.”

Ms Phillips will join the AEC in officially declaring the seat at a ceremony in Port Kembla on Thursday.