Nationals bid to flip Bendigo East and West in November 28 election
The Nationals campaign for two Labor seats in Bendigo, attacking Labor's debt and economic record.
The Nationals held a campaign launch at the Bendigo Jockey Club with 130 supporters for the state election on November 28. Bendigo East and Bendigo West are the party's main targets, both held by Labor for years.
Andrew Lethlean narrowly lost the federal seat in 2025 and is now running for the state seat. David Hutchings is running for Bendigo West.
Both candidates focused on money management and debt control. They pointed to Victoria's nearly $200 billion in debt and blamed Labor for cost blowouts on major projects.
The Nationals plan to scrap the emergency services tax, payroll tax, and land tax relief if elected. Senator Bridget McKenzie told the crowd the party would end Labor's rule in the region.
- Nearly $200 billion
- Victoria state debt
- About 130 supporters
- Campaign launch attendance
- Lethlean narrowly lost in 2025
- Bendigo federal result
- November 28, 2026
- Election date
Why it mattersThese races matter because Bendigo East and West are traditionally Labor strongholds; a Nationals win here would signal a broader shift toward the Coalition.
AustraliaThe outcome will shape Victorian policy on tax, debt and services for the next four years.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
