Date set for Warrandyte by-election after Ryan Smith’s formal resignation
A date has been set for the Warrandyte by-election after Liberal MP Ryan Smith’s formal resignation after an almost 17-year career.
Victoria
Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Warrandyte by-election has been set for August 26, following the formal resignation of incumbent Ryan Smith on Friday.
The Liberal MP leaves parliament after an almost 17-year career, including a stint as a government minister.
Legislative Assembly speaker Maree Edwards announced the by-election date in a brief statement.
“I have today received the resignation of the Member for Warrandyte, the Hon Ryan Smith MP. I thank Mr Smith for his contribution to the Parliament over the past 16 years and wish him well with his next steps,” she said.
“I advise that pursuant to section 61(2) of the Electoral Act 2002 I intend to issue a writ for a by-election to be held for the seat of Warrandyte on 26 August 2023. I will issue the writ next Thursday.
“Under the timelines in the Electoral Act, the writ will be required to be returned by 16 September 2023, which will allow time for a new member to be elected and sworn-in in the Legislative Assembly during the first sitting week in October.”
The by-election looms as a major test for Opposition Leader John Pesutto.
If the Liberal Party fails to retain the seat, which it has held since 1988, it is widely expected it would spell the end of his leadership.
The party holds the seat with a margin of 4.2 per cent, despite Mr Smith suffering a small swing against his primary vote share at last year’s election.
Pollsters believe the byelection could produce a similar shock result as seen in April in the federal seat of Aston.
It was the first time in a century a federal government won a seat from opposition at a byelection with Labor taking the seat from the Liberal Party.
It is not yet clear whether or not the ALP will field a candidate.
Liberal candidate Nicole Werner, who ran in the seat of Box Hill last year, faces competition from the Greens and a number of independents.
More Coverage
Victorians could get a day off to celebrate Aboriginal culture
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has left the door open to a new public holiday to celebrate Aboriginal culture, as part of Treaty talks.
Bec Judd’s plans to design golf gear and travel the world playing
Melbourne influencer Bec Judd — who says she’s become a golf “addict” and plans to design a golf fashion range and travel the world playing the game — is the face of the Australian Open’s new fun 19th party hole.