NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro
New South Wales Deputy Premier John Barilaro has decided not to run for the federal seat of Eden-Monaro. This is despite polls suggesting he could have won. Source: Timberbiz
Mr Barilaro said he was “at peace” with his decision, despite being buoyed by colleagues and commentators who said he could be the next deputy prime minister.
Mr Barilaro’s decision paves the way for NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance, who represents neighbouring Bega, to potentially run for the Liberal Party after the cabinet colleagues promised not to compete against each other.
However, Liberal senator Jim Molan is also reportedly considering standing.
The long-serving sitting member Mike Kelly late last week ended months of speculation by making what he described as the “gut-wrenching” decision to resign from Parliament due to ongoing ill-health.
“After taking the weekend to contemplate a tilt for the seat of Eden Monaro, I have decided that I will not run as a candidate,” Mr Barilaro said in a statement.
“In politics, ego can quickly skew decisions, and sometime make you forget what is best for yourself, your family and what could be the best outcome for the people of Eden Monaro.”
Federal Labor leader Anthony Albanese said retaining the NSW seat would be a challenge, even though it is 100 years since a government has taken a seat in a by-election. Labor has chosen Bega mayor Kristy McBain to run for the seat.
Australian Forest Products Association CEO Ross Hampton last week claimed that the by-election would go to the candidate who delivered the strongest and most positive growth plan for forest industries.
Mr Hampton said the by-election would come at a crucial time for the NSW South West Slopes region’s softwood plantation-based industries, which are its biggest employer, supporting nearly $2 billion of economic activity and more than 5000 jobs.
No date has been set for the by-election.
