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Farrer By-Election Tightens as Coalition Directs Preferences to One Nation

Preference flows now look decisive in a test of One Nation’s reach.

Overview

  • Independent Michelle Milthorpe stepped up her attack on David Farley’s credibility, citing reports he sought Labor preselection in 2021 and made a small Labor donation in 2023.
  • Opposition leader Angus Taylor defended putting One Nation ahead of Milthorpe on Coalition how-to-vote cards, calling it the “least worst option.”
  • Both the Liberal and National parties are directing preferences to Farley, setting up a count where preference transfers are likely to decide the winner.
  • Published polling and betting markets show Farley and Milthorpe running neck and neck, with voters focused on water buybacks, regional health care, energy and the cost of living.
  • Farrer has been held by the Coalition since 1949, so a Farley win would break that run and give One Nation its first seat in the House of Representatives.