Jacinta Allan retires, leaving Labor searching for new candidate in Bendigo East

Jacinta Allan will not run in the 2026 state election. She held Bendigo East for seven elections before becoming premier. Her departure leaves Labor weaker in a seat that swung heavily to the Coalition in last year's federal poll.

Why it mattersBendigo East was one of few places where the Coalition gained votes nationally last year. If the Nationals repeat that performance, Labor could lose the seat in the November state election.