Helen Haines thanks Indi as election result formally declared by AEC

Federal Independent Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines has expressed her deep gratitude to the people of Indi following the official Declaration of the Polls by the Australian Electoral Commission, held at the Centre for Continuing Education in Wangaratta on Wednesday.

“I’m deeply honoured to be returned for a third time as the Independent Federal Member for Indi,” Dr Haines said.

“While it was clear on election night that Indi would remain independent, the official declaration is a significant and humbling moment. This is a responsibility I take seriously, with great pride and gratitude.”

Dr Haines reaffirmed her commitment to make every minute count for Indi and regional Australia in the 48th Parliament.

“I will take every opportunity to deliver local impact and national influence for the benefit of Indi and the nation.” 

Although Parliament will resume later in July, Dr Haines said her work had already begun. 

“I have written to key ministers in the 48th Parliament to outline the key platforms and issues that I will be pursuing for Indi.

“This work reflects the clear priorities of the people of Indi – housing, cost-of-living, healthcare, childcare, regional infrastructure and action on climate change. These are the platforms that I took to the election and will guide my advocacy in the new Parliament.

Dr Haines also paid tribute to the Australian Electoral Commission as counting continues in close contests and Senate quotas are finalised.

“We cannot understate the complexity of managing a federal election and the work required to protect this cornerstone of our democracy.

“We are fortunate to live in a robust democracy where we have the opportunity to take part in free and fair elections and ensure our voices are represented in Canberra. 

“I am committed to representing all of Indi – not just those who voted for me.” 

She also acknowledged the efforts of other candidates, including the Liberal Party’s James Trenery, who finished second in the two-candidate preferred count.

“It is a massive commitment to run as a candidate, to try and connect with the small communities and big towns and understand the issues that traverse them. The candidates who put their hands up, including Mr Trenery, have also contributed to the democratic process here in Indi.”

Dr Haines’ final thanks were directed to her own campaign volunteers and supporters, who helped doorknock more than 15,000 households during the campaign, manned campaign hubs and polling booths.

“This result is a reflection on the dedication of more than 900 volunteers across Indi over many months, who committed to our values and the notion of ‘doing politics differently’.”

At this election, Dr Haines increased her primary vote by 1.61% and retained her strong margin from 2022, with 42.29% of voters in Indi voters placing her first on the ballot, finishing with 58.64% of the two-candidate preferred vote.

(Photo: Helen Haines with Deborah Giosserano representing the AEC at the Declaration of the Polls)

ENDS