As Labor's safe status in Melbourne's west slips, independents are eyeing off 'neglected' communities
Campaigners from both major parties as well as researchers say there is a shift in mood among the outer west — a similar phenomenon is occurring in the south-east of Melbourne, which was reflected in a drop in primary vote at the federal election.
"There's a lot of anti-government sentiment, but not a lot of pro-opposition. So, I think people just want to change and want to a voice that will represent them and speak for them,'' Dr Garra said.
After a tilt at Treasurer Tim Pallas's Werribee seat in 2018, where he won nearly one in five votes as an independent, Dr Garra is once again putting his hand up for parliament, this time in the new seat of Point Cook, where he lives.
For the government, Melton is the most vulnerable to a loss. It is a "target" seat for the party, the highest priority for the campaign.
'Melton is currently held by former ambulance union secretary Steve McGhie but he suffered a 6.9 per cent swing at the last election, despite Labor enjoying a 4.8 per cent state-wide swing in the so-called Danslide.
In 2018, Labor's primary dropped more than 15 per cent, the Liberals' fell more than 12 per cent.'
As Victoria's election nears, Melbourne's outer west is a source of unease for Labor strategists
Melbourne's outer west has been safe Labor territory for generations, but there is growing unease among government strategists about how the Victorian election will play out in places like Melton, Point Cook and Werribee.
www.abc.net.au
Interesting couple of months ahead with traditional campaigning strategies of dubious value.