Liberals claim victory in Nepean byelection ahead of state poll
The Liberal Party has claimed victory in the Nepean byelection, with candidate Anthony Marsh leading in a result seen as a key indicator ahead of Victoria's November state election. Despite retaining the seat, the Liberals faced a nearly 10% swing against them and a strong challenge from One Nation and an independent candidate. Opposition leader Jess Wilson welcomed the win but acknowledged further work is needed before the state poll.
- ▪Anthony Marsh won the Nepean byelection with 38.5% of the primary vote and 63.4% on a two-candidate preferred basis.
- ▪One Nation's Darren Hercus received 24.7% of the primary vote, surpassing independent Tracee Hutchison, who had 21.3%.
- ▪Labor did not field a candidate, and the byelection was triggered by the resignation of former Liberal deputy leader Sam Groth.
- ▪Marsh admitted he does not live in the electorate but emphasized his experience as a former three-time mayor in the area.
- ▪Political analysts warn that One Nation's strong showing could pose a threat to the Liberals in the upcoming state election.
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Anthony Marsh and Liberal opposition leader, Jess Wilson, eat some sausages from the bbq during the 2026 Nepean byelection at the Sea Scouts Hall polling station in Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula Photograph: Ian Currie/AAPView image in fullscreenAnthony Marsh and Liberal opposition leader, Jess Wilson, eat some sausages from the bbq during the 2026 Nepean byelection at the Sea Scouts Hall polling station in Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula Photograph: Ian Currie/AAPLiberal partyLiberals claim victory in Nepean byelection ahead of state pollAnthony Marsh appears to be in commanding position in significant boost to opposition leader Jess WilsonAustralian Associated PressSat 2 May 2026 09.19 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe Liberals have claimed victory in a key Victorian…
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