For the first time in over 100 years The Nationals WA will seek to run candidates in the metropolitan region, after a decision to open pre-selection to all WA seats was endorsed by The Nationals State Council today.
State President Julie Freeman said the departure from tradition was an exciting opportunity for The Nationals to broaden their representation ahead of the 2025 State election.
“This is an historic moment for The Nationals WA as our party continues to evolve to ensure we do our best to represent families, businesses and communities right across WA,” Mrs Freeman said.
“Whether you live in Bateman or Bridgetown, issues like housing and rental availability, the high cost-of-living, and the ongoing crisis in our health system are only becoming more challenging under the Cook Labor Government.”
Mrs Freeman said the past three years as Opposition had seen The Nationals WA step up to hold the WA Labor Government to account across a variety of shadow portfolios including transport, mines and petroleum, and education.
“These portfolios have relevance to all people across WA, regardless of whether they live in Perth or our regions,” Mrs Freeman said.
“As we have developed relationships with communities, businesses and stakeholders, they have indicated there is a clear appetite from Perth voters to have alternatives to the two major parties when they go to the polling booth in March 2025.”
Mrs Freeman said sweeping electoral reforms brought on by the Labor Government over the last two decades had significantly altered the make-up of Parliament and were a factor in the decision to run candidates in the metropolitan region.
“Regional residents have not forgotten how the Labor Government lied to the people of Western Australia when they said electoral reform was not on the agenda, only to arrogantly make it their first order of business,” Mrs Freeman said.
“As a result of these changes, the 2025 State election will see the lowest number of regional seats contested in WA’s history – with just 15 regional seats in the Legislative Assembly, and no dedicated regional seats in the Upper House.
“Local candidates in Perth will also help to bolster recognition for our Legislative Council candidates, which is critical to reducing Labor’s stranglehold on both Houses of Parliament.”
Mrs Freeman said The Nationals WA had a strong track record of delivering grassroots campaigns, which focused on local champions who understood their communities.
“We are calling on individuals who are passionate about their communities, irrespective of location, to join us in building a stronger future for Western Australia.”
Mrs Freeman said pre-selections are now open and encouraged local champions in both regional WA and Perth to consider running for The Nationals WA.
“Now is the time for local leaders to put their hands up and make a difference.”
