Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the Liberal-National Coalition would need a “miracle” to win the seat previously filled by Johnsen.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro called for Johnsen’s immediate resignation and suspension from the National Party after it was revealed the ex-Member sent lewd texts during Question Time and offered a sex worker $1,000 for services inside state Parliament.“That’s not to say we won’t put a strong case, we'll put our best foot forward, but the math is against us,” Berejiklian said.
Legislative Assembly Speaker Jonathon O'Dea announced the by-election date is set for May 22.
Historically, by-elections in Australia have always boasted a double-digit swing against governments. The Berejiklian government was re-elected in 2019 with 48 seats against 36 Labor seats.
Leader of the Opposition Jodi McKay said the Premier’s statement was “quite extraordinary” as the Nationals have held the seat since 1932.“I actually think it will take a miracle for the National Party to lose this seat,” McKay said.
However, Berejiklian says she is not concerned about passing bills even with a minority government.
“I’m confident those independent members of the house will support good legislation,” she said.
The Upper Hunter seat represents a mix of industries, including prime agriculture regions responsible for horse studs, vineyards, and beef production.
The region stretches inland along the New England highway and includes Dungog, Stroud, and Gloucester to the north of Maitland.
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