Farrer By-Election: Defending Conservative Values After Ley's Departure
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Sussan Ley's resignation triggers a by-election in Farrer, as conservative forces mobilize to protect the seat from left-wing and independent challengers.
Former Liberal leader Sussan Ley has officially resigned as the Member for Farrer, prompting a crucial by-election in this key New South Wales electorate. Ley’s departure follows her loss in the Liberal Party leadership spill on February 13, 2026, where Angus Taylor, a proven conservative leader, rightfully took the helm of the party.
The Farrer electorate, which includes the heartland towns of Albury, Griffith, and Deniliquin, has been a proud stronghold for the Liberal Party since Ley’s election in 2001. Despite a concerning swing against the Liberals in the 2025 federal election—fueled by left-wing activism and media campaigns—Ley still maintained a 6.2% margin over independent Michelle Milthorpe, who benefited from the anti-establishment sentiment.
A crowded field is now emerging to contest the by-election, with left-leaning independents and minor parties eager to undermine conservative representation. Independent Michelle Milthorpe, who captured 20% of the primary vote in 2025, is running again, threatening to split the conservative vote and hand the seat to radical progressives. Family First is putting forward Rebecca Scriven, a school worker whose policies risk diluting the conservative message. The Greens, notorious for their extreme environmental and social agendas, have confirmed their participation, though their candidate is yet to be announced.
The Nationals, steadfast allies of rural Australia and defenders of traditional values, are making their first bid for Farrer since 2001. Party Chairman Rick Colless emphasized the Nationals’ unwavering commitment to regional communities, promising to put forward a strong local candidate who will fight for Farrer and ensure conservative voices are heard in Canberra.
One Nation, a party unafraid to stand up to political correctness and defend Australian values, is also entering the race, with preselection scheduled for March 7 at the Albury Entertainment Centre. The event will include a public rally to energize supporters and introduce their candidate.
Independent state MP Helen Dalton, a vocal advocate for rural interests, has been approached by One Nation to run for the federal seat. Dalton confirmed discussions with Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce but has not yet made a decision, signaling the importance of unity among conservatives.
The date for the by-election will be set following Ley’s formal resignation. With multiple parties and independents vying for the seat, the contest will be a crucial test of whether Farrer will remain a bastion of conservative values or fall to the forces of the left.