Rural Senator makes maiden speech in federal parliament

“Voices for” independents and critics of his wife, Sophie, were raised in Wangaratta-based Senator Greg Mirabella’s first speech in federal parliament.

Victorian Senator Greg Mirabella has taken a swipe at “Voices for” styled candidates at the upcoming federal election in his maiden parliamentary speech on Wednesday night.

Mr Mirabella’s wife Sophie was the first Liberal MP to fall to a “Voices for” independent, Cathy McGowan, in the northeastern Victorian electorate of Indi in 2013 with the latter’s successor Helen Haines seeking a second term.

More than 20 “Voices for” candidates are already confirmed starters in this year’s election, mostly in Coalition held seats.

“I share the concern of many of a hung federal election result,” Mr Mirabella said.

“These Voices candidates are well-schooled in avoiding answering the question as to who they would support to form government.

“But there is of course no doubt. They are all contesting only against Coalition members.

“The notion that any of them would support the Coalition is absurd. They are therefore the Voices for Labor.”

Mr Mirabella entered the Senate for the first time this week after winning a preselection late last year to replace the retiring Scott Ryan.

Sophie Mirabella, during her parliamentary career as the member for Indi and shadow industry Minister.

His wife, four children and mother were present for the maiden speech, but Mr Mirabella’s father died around the time he won the Liberal preselection last year.

He described Sophie as “an extraordinary representative” for Indi.

“The fruits of her efforts are still fully evident today, though perhaps not sufficiently recognised,” Mr Mirabella said.

“The residents of the Albury-Wodonga region drive on the roads, and the freeway that she fought to get built.

“The people of North East Victoria attend medical facilities that she fought to get funded.

“Even before she entered parliament she was able to work with then Prime Minister John Howard to secure Defence Industry jobs in Benalla and across the Murray In Mulwala.”