Hobart councillor Louise Elliot ends months of speculation about running for state parliament

Hobart councillor Louise Elliot has made up her mind about running for state politics. Find out what she’s decided and why.

Hobart City councillor Louise Elliot has made up her mind about running for state politics. Picture: Linda Higginson

A high profile Hobart councillor has ended months of speculation about whether she will take a tilt at state politics.

Louise Elliot joined the Liberal Party last year and was widely expected to stand for the party in Clark.

However, she says she has decided not to run – for this election at least.

Ms Elliot, described the decision as “the hardest of her life”.

She said she had never been a member of a political party but joined the Liberals after The Voice referendum.

“I met some grassroots Liberal members during The Voice campaign,” Ms Elliot told the Mercury.

Hobart City Councillor Louise Elliot. Picture: Chris Kidd

She admitted she has “higher aspirations”.

“I’m an accidental politician,” Ms Elliot said.

“When I see things that need attention, I take the steps needed.

“I’m not afraid to say what needs to be said, and many people respect that. For the moment, the council is my focus.

“I know that many in the community want to see me represent them beyond the Hobart boundaries, and when the time is right, I’ll work hard for them at a higher level.”

In a post on Facebook, Ms Elliot thank people for their “support and messages of encouragement, especially over past few months”.

“I’ve made the very hard decision to NOT be a candidate in this year’s State election.

“This decision has been one of the hardest of my life.”

Ms Elliot said as a “born and bred Hobartian, my love for our city could not be stronger”.

“I have a lot to give and know that many [are] keen for me to represent them.

“The time isn’t right for me with a young family and there’s so much that needs addressing in the council, from value for rates, its financial situation, genuine community engagement, a culture of discrimination and bullying and much more, so there’s no shortage of work ahead.”