Wilson skips debate to campaign in key Victorian seat held since 1877
Jess Wilson skipped a debate to campaign in Benambra, where One Nation is gaining ground.
Liberal opposition leader Jess Wilson chose to campaign in the regional Victorian seat of Benambra. Wilson did not face a televised debate with Labor's Ben Carroll.
The seat, held continuously by conservative parties since 1877, is now wide open. The Liberal MP retired and independent Jacqui Hawkins declined to run.
Some voters are splitting between the Liberals, One Nation, and a community independent. At a pub in Wodonga, locals told Wilson they plan to vote One Nation for change.
She said the Liberals are the only vehicle for change. The Liberals have committed over $175 million in pledges to Benambra.
About 10 kilometres across the border in New South Wales, the once-safe Liberal seat of Farrer recently turned orange at a byelection. This signals a shift in regional support.
- 1877
- Seat held since
- 0.9%
- Previous margin
- Over 175 million dollars
- Liberal pledges
- Benambra, Victoria
- Location
Why it mattersA seat the Liberals held since 1877 is now contested. Regional disengagement with major parties could reshape Victorian parliament.
AustraliaBenambra's shift could signal broader regional swings that affect the Victorian election outcome and influence how parties campaign in similar seats nationwide.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 19 h ago
