Seven candidates are vying for the chance to become the new Gorton MP at this federal election.
With Labor MP Brendan O’Connor retiring, there will be a new member for the seat for the first time since it was created in 2004. Mr O’Connor previously held the seat of Burke from 2001 to 2004, which was in place before the formation of Gorton, meaning he had represented much of the area for 24 years.
Gorton covers Brimbank and Melton with much of the electorate part of the growth areas between the Melton township and Brimbank.
The electorate includes Caroline Springs, Burnside, Hillside, Fraser Rise, Taylors Hill, Albanvale, Deer Park, Kings Park, Delahey, Sydenham, Taylors Lakes and Keilor.
Gorton has historically been a safe Labor seat, having replaced the more marginal seat of Burke.
At the last election, Mr O’Connor received a 10 per cent swing against him on first preferences, but Liberal candidate John Fletcher didn’t pick up any of the extra votes, with an 0.6 per cent swing against the Liberal Party.
On two-party preferred, the Labor Party still held a 60 to 40 per cent lead despite a swing of 4.3 per cent against it.
Mr Fletcher will again stand for the Liberal Party, with Alice Jordan-Baird nominated as the person to replace Mr O’Connor.
Xavier Menta, who stood for the Legalise Cannabis Party in the Werribee state by-election, will stand for that party in Gorton.
Libertarian’ Rob McCathie, Family First’s Katherine Ashton, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation’s Alan Reid and the Greens’ Thuc Bao Huynh are the other candidates starting.
Transport has been one of the key areas the major parties have focused on.
The Labor Party has revealed budget funding for both upgrades to the Western Freeway Calder Park Drive.
The Liberal Party has announced it will deliver both projects, meaning the upgrades should occur no matter whoever wins on May 2.
Star Weekly reached out to the candidates who are standing for the seat of Gorton at the federal election, asking why voters should vote for them. Some candidates did not respond by deadline.
John Fletcher, Liberal Party
Labor’s cost of living crisis is hurting the entire Gorton community. Rent is up, housing is up, groceries are up, electricity is up, insurance is up. Only a Coalition government led by Peter Dutton has a plan to provide sustainable cost of living relief. We will cut petrol tax by 25 cents a litre, saving families with two cars $1,500 a year. And we will deliver most Australians up to $1200 in tax relief when they lodge their tax return for the upcoming 2025-26 financial year. Australians cannot afford another three years of Labor. It’s time to get Australia back on track.
Alice Jordan-Baird, Labor Party
I’m Alice Jordan-Baird, your federal Labor candidate for Gorton. I met my husband Chris, a local sparkie, at the Keilor Hotel. We live in Sydenham and we’re starting our family here in this community. I studied science, and I’ve worked to deliver better education and transport for Melbourne’s west. I’m passionate about supporting families by easing cost-of-living pressures and securing the infrastructure and investment we need to keep up with our growing suburbs. That’s why I am proud that Labor is delivering tax cuts, more bulk-billed GP appointments and cheaper childcare for our community in Gorton.
Xavier Menta, Legalise Cannabis Party
Hey, I’m Xavier, your Legalise Cannabis Party Candidate for Gorton. I’m committed to advocating for cannabis law reform and fighting for the people of Gorton. As a son of the west, I understand Gorton’s challenges – access to bulk-billed specialist and general health services, we need better and smarter road infrastructure plus more youth outreach programs. My focus is on calling for investment for practical solutions that deliver real improvements for local residents. Vote one this election for Xavier Menta for a passionate voice for positive change.
