Labor launches Bendigo campaign as election tightens against Nationals threat
Labor is pushing hard to hold two Bendigo seats with free dental clinics as a key campaign promise.
Labor has launched its campaign to defend its two Bendigo seats as the Victorian election tightens. The party brought 140 supporters to Trades Hall on Friday for a rally.
Candidates Tim Rickwood and Brenton Baldwin led the event, along with former premier John Brumby. Allan notably did not attend.
The Nationals and One Nation are targeting the seats. Labor's platform includes twenty free dental care clinics across Victoria, with one in Bendigo.
Rickwood told the crowd of a refugee student with a serious tooth infection. He used this case to argue for free dental access.
Former Premier Brumby acknowledged the race would be difficult. He said preference flows would be crucial to holding the seats.
The election is set for Saturday, November 28.
- 140 supporters
- Rally attendance
- 20 across Victoria
- Free dental clinics proposed
- Saturday, November 28
- Election date
- Bendigo East and Bendigo West
- Seats contested
Why it mattersBendigo East and Bendigo West are now battlegrounds in a tight state race. The outcome will help decide whether Labor or the Coalition leads Victoria after the election.
AustraliaThese two seats are central to Victoria's 2026 election. Bendigo voters will see intense campaigning over healthcare and cost of living in the final weeks before polling day.
