Key Contests: Seats in Western Sydney, Brisbane, and Regional Areas to Watch on Election Day
As the 2023 Australian federal election approaches, several seats are shaping up to be hotly contested, with narrow margins and high-profile candidates making them crucial to watch. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the key contests in Western Sydney, Brisbane, and regional areas, as well as the personal votes of the party leaders.
Western Sydney
- Reid (NSW) – Labor’s 2.3% margin
Currently held by Labor’s Sally Zolkwer, Reid is a key target for the Liberal Party, with their candidate, Dr. Sophie Scamps, well-regarded in the local community. The seat is a bellwether for Western Sydney, where the Coalition has traditionally struggled.
- Gilmore (NSW) – Labor’s 3.2% margin
Held by Labor’s Fiona Phillips, Gilmore is another key seat in the region. The Liberal Party’s Andrew Constance, a former NSW Cabinet Minister, is vying to win the seat for the Coalition.
Brisbane
- Bonner (QLD) – Liberal’s 0.6% margin
Currently held by Liberal MP Ross Vasta, Bonner is one of the most marginal seats in the country. Labor’s Leeanne Enoch, a former QLD State Minister, is campaigning hard to win the seat back for Labor.
- Forde (QLD) – Liberal’s 1.6% margin
Held by Liberal MP Bert Van Manen, Forde is another key seat in the Brisbane region. Labor’s Peter Beattie, a former QLD Premier, is seeking to overturn the Coalition’s narrow lead.
Regional Areas
- Murray (NSW) – Liberal’s 1.8% margin
Currently held by Liberal MP Michelle Landry, Murray is a key seat in rural New South Wales. Labor’s Russell Matheson is challenging the incumbent, looking to capitalize on the government’s struggles in regional areas.
- Wimmera (VIC) – Liberal’s 1.2% margin
Held by Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg’s long-time friend, Gilbert Wong, Wimmera is a crucial seat in western Victoria. Labor’s Darryl Moore is hoping to win the seat for the ALP.
Party Leaders’ Personal Votes
- Scott Morrison (Liberal Party)
As Prime Minister, Morrison’s personal vote is crucial to the Coalition’s chances. With his approval ratings in free-fall, Morrison is campaigning hard to win over swing voters in key seats.
- Anthony Albanese (Australian Labor Party)
As Leader of the Opposition, Albanese’s personal vote is vital to Labor’s campaign. With his popularity among progressive voters, Albanese is focusing on winning over independents and crossbenchers.
- Clive Palmer (United Australia Party)
As leader of the United Australia Party, Palmer is a dark horse in the election, with his party polling as high as 10%. While his personal vote may not be as crucial, Palmer’s influence on undecided voters could prove significant in tight contests.
In conclusion, these key contests will have a significant impact on the outcome of the 2023 Australian federal election. With narrow margins, high-profile candidates, and shifting voter sentiment, election night promises to be full of surprises.