At the conclusion of counting, Ms Chesters was 2,983 votes ahead of her nearest challenger, securing her a fifth term in office.

It comes off the back of a determined grassroots campaign from local Labor supporters and volunteers, successfully holding off a multi-million dollar aggressive campaign from the Nationals and outsiders.

Ms Chesters will join 93 other Labor members in the House of Representatives when Parliament returns on 22nd July, bringing a strong agenda of issues that are important to the Bendigo electorate.

Priorities include ensuring our public schools receive full and fair funding; continuing to roll out on Labor’s free TAFE and increase support for apprentices; bolstering Bendigo’s local manufacturing industry and delivering on over $20 million of local election commitments.

These projects including the Kangaroo Flat and Kyneton Skate Parks, new club rooms for Truscott Reserve and North Bendigo Recreation Reserve, a Veterans’ and Families’ Hub for Central Victoria, the next stage of the Reimagining Bendigo Creek project and the Central Deborah Gold Mine Revitalisation Project.

Water and energy security for Central Victorians will also be a key focus for Ms Chesters, as local farmers and producers continue to battle with the effects of drought and climate change.

Ms Chesters will continue to be a strong voice for the Bendigo Electorate in Canberra and in the local community.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP: 

“It is an honour to be able to represent our community as the Member for Bendigo and I am humbled to be re-elected for a fifth term.

“I want to acknowledge the hard work of the AEC Bendigo staff. This was the ugliest and toughest election I have been part of and the local pressure on the AEC was unparalleled to any of the previous elections I have contested.

“I again want to thank my wonderful family, campaign team and incredible local volunteers for their support.

“The Bendigo Electorate is diverse electorate and with that comes a unique range of challenges. I’m already back to work in our electorate discussing key issues with local community groups, organisations and constituents.

“There are some exciting projects to get underway, and I've already begun to discuss how best to deliver these projects with key Labor Government Ministers and local partners.

“I will also be fighting for practical and sustainable solutions for our regions water and energy challenges. Our local farmers, produces and households need a strong voice in Canberra and I will continue to be that voice.”