Kiama election: Disgraced MP's seat falls to Labor as Libs soul search
A by-election loss could jolt NSW opposition leader Mark Speakman’s grip on the Liberal leadership after voters in the state’s south backed a Labor candidate to replace a disgraced MP.
Voters in the electorate of Kiama chose a new representative to state parliament after former MP Gareth Ward was forced to resign after being convicted of sexual and indecent assault in July.
It is the first time in three decades a seat in a by-election has gone to the government.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Labor candidate Katelin McInerney’s victory was the first major electoral test for the Minns government.
“I am humbled and honoured to have been elected as your MP,” she said.
Premier Chris Minns said the result was a humbling success.
“My government views this result as an invitation to work even harder for the entire state,” he said.
“Kiama now has that voice inside government, and I know Katelin will be a fierce advocate for her community.”
He acknowledged the strong vote for minor parties and independents.
About a third of voters cast their ballots for candidates outside the two major parties.
A field of 13 candidates contested the seat.
Election analyst Ben Raue called the win for Labor two hours after polls closed, characterising it as a comfortable victory.
He noted later on Saturday night Labor’s two-party preferred vote was at around 60 per cent, with a 10.7 per cent swing.
But Labor’s primary vote swing was about three per cent.
The result brings Labor to 46 seats in the Legislative Assembly, one shy of a full majority.
Mr Raue said the outcome may raise questions about the leadership of Opposition Leader Mark Speakman.
Asked if his leadership would survive a loss, Mr Speakman batted away speculation.
“We are the underdogs,” he told reporters in Kiama on Friday.
“I will be the leader. I will continue to be the leader.
Ward resigned in August after he was convicted for sexual and indecent assault in July and he is due to be sentenced next week.
Though Ward maintained a significant personal vote at the previous election, Mr Minns said Saturday’s by-election would draw a line under the disgraced MP’s time in office.
“Now it’s about turning the page,” he said.
