Joel Bowden congratulates Independent Justine Davis after losing seat of Johnston

Joel Bowden will take “some time” to consider his future after losing his seat in the general election. Read his statement.

Joel Bowden has conceded defeat after independent Justine Davis won the seat of Johnston. Picture: Sierra Haigh

Joel Bowden has conceded election defeat to Independent Justine Davis, announcing he will take “some time” to consider his future.

The announcement comes as Ms Davis romped home a convincing election win in the seat of Johnston, edging Country Liberal Party candidate Gary Strachan by more than 600 votes.

Elected in 2020, Mr Bowden fell to third place, accruing just over 1000 primary votes.

On Friday, the former AFL player took to social media to confirm his tenure as Member for Johnston had come to an end.

“Thank you to the people of Johnston for supporting me through two elections, very grateful,” he said.

“Congratulations to Justine and I wish you all the best.”

Mr Bowden, pictured with his loved ones, has taken to social media to thank his supporters. Source: Facebook.

Mr Bowden paid tribute to his inner circle of supporters.

“Thank you to my family who have supported me on this journey,” he said.

“To my friends, comrades, ministerial and electorate office staff, and the broader Labor and union family, thank you for your help and support.

“Solidarity makes us strong.”

Mr Bowden said he would now contemplate his next move.

“For now I’m taking some time to think about what to do next and enjoy some down time with family and friends,” he said.

Justine Davis is now the Member for Johnston. Source: Facebook.

Meanwhile, Ms Davis thanked her supporters ahead of her official induction into parliament.

“There are no words to express how grateful I am to everyone who has helped me get here, for what we have already achieved together and for the work that lies ahead,” she said.

“Looking forward to the next four years making the Northern Territory a better place for all of us.”

Mr Bowden held the portfolios of Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics; Minister for Business and Jobs; Minister for Skills, Training and International Education; Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Minister for Recreational Fishing.