Dunkley Byelection: Contenders Focus on Cost of Living, Crime, and Energy Issues

Voters in the outer seat of Dunkley are gearing up for a significant event tomorrow as they head to the polls for the highly anticipated byelection. The electorate, situated on the Mornington Peninsula and encompassing areas like Frankston, Carrum Downs, Langwarrin, and Sandhurst, currently stands vacant following the passing of the beloved local member.

With only one seat at stake, the outcome of the Dunkley byelection is set to have ripple effects across the political spectrum, especially given the next federal election looming within a year.

The two primary contenders in this byelection are Labor’s Jodie Belyea and the Liberal candidate Nathan Conroy. Belyea, renowned for founding a local volunteer group offering health and wellbeing programs for vulnerable women, received support from the late member about a year ago, which aided in securing her preselection.

Conroy, the current mayor of Frankston, originally from Ireland, has a background in managing an inner-Melbourne bowling club and was elected to the council in 2020.

The political landscape is heavily influenced by various factors. The government’s reworked stage 3 tax cuts and the debate surrounding the impact of gambling advertising are prevalent issues in the byelection narrative.

Of particular interest is the scrutiny on political advertising techniques, with right-wing lobbyists from Advance Australia drawing criticism for their campaign tactics. Their attack ads targeting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have sparked controversy, with allegations of misinformation designed to instill fear among voters.

As the Dunkley seat has historically been won by both major parties, the upcoming byelection is expected to be closely contested. Polls suggest a tight race, with indications pointing to a potential nail-biter outcome.

Given the electorate’s concerns over the cost of living, crime, and energy, both Belyea and Conroy have tailored their campaign messages to address these pressing issues. Conroy’s call for an open dialogue on nuclear power has stirred public interest, while Belyea is focusing on championing causes like a ban on gambling advertising.

The rising apprehension regarding crime rates in the Dunkley region adds another layer of complexity to the electoral dynamics. Statistics revealing an increase in criminal incidents have underscored the importance of addressing law enforcement and community safety.