Mulgrave by-election: Labor wins first test since Dan Andrews’ exit

Labor took the seat of former Victoria premier Daniel Andrews in a closely watched byelection, but the victory was narrow and the numbers spell trouble for the state’s progressives.

Eden Foster, Labor candidate for Mulgrave, took a big hit of 10.9 per cent in the traditionally safe Labor seat, securing 40.1 per cent of first preferences.

She won with 56.2 percent of the vote after preferences, beating independent candidate Ian Cook.

The election, which took place after Andrews resigned as premier in September, was closely watched for any swings against Labor and what it could mean for Prime Minister Jacinta Allan’s grip on power in the state.

Announcing the results, Liberal Opposition Leader John Pesutto said Mulgrave voters had sent Ms Allan a “strong message”.

“They are tired of her taxes, waste and mismanagement. Victoria deserves better,” he said.

Liberal candidate Courtney Mann posted a 4.4 percent gain in his favor in first preferences, winning 21.6 percent of the vote.

In the 2022 state election, Andrews won 51 per cent of first preferences for the seat, which covers parts of Melbourne’s far south-east.

Celebrating the victory last night, Ms Allan said by-elections were often a challenge for governments.

The election, which took place after Andrews resigned as premier in September, was closely watched for any swings against Labor and what it could mean for Prime Minister Jacinta Allan’s grip on power in the state.

“When we started this campaign, we knew we were going to have an uphill battle,” she said.

Ms Allan said voters gave the seat back to Labor “they know Labor delivers results”.

Ms Foster is the former mayor of Dandenong.

“We did it, we did this,” Ms Foster said.

‘It’s an amazing feeling, a surreal feeling.

“I’m raising my hand to join this campaign because this community has given me everything.”