One Nation has claimed victory in the Secret Harbour by-election, giving the party its first seat in Western Australia’s Legislative Assembly.
Gym owner Luke Herdegen is expected to become the new member for Secret Harbour after taking the traditionally safe Labor seat from the government. Labor had hoped to replace retiring minister Paul Papalia with former political staffer Georgia Tree.
“There are no safe Labor seats in this state or in this country anymore,” Herdegen said as he claimed victory before an enthusiastic crowd.
“The people of Secret Harbour have sent a message that will send shockwaves around the country,” Herdegen said. “No seat is safe from the orange tsunami.”
As counting continued into the night, One Nation attracted 35.8 per cent of the primary vote, well ahead of Labor on 25 per cent and the Liberals on 17.4 per cent.
According to the Western Australian Electoral Commission, Herdegen held 53.9 per cent of the vote compared with Labor candidate Georgia Tree’s 46.1 per cent on a two-party-preferred basis. If that ratio holds through the remainder of the count, it would represent a 17.5 per cent swing away from the government.
Speaking to the Sunday Times, national leader Senator Pauline Hanson described the result as “magnificent” for the party.
“Luke has been an outstanding candidate who locals liked from day one. I saw it firsthand when I walked through the streets with him.
“Tonight’s result should be a warning to Labor. We’re coming for more of your seats,” Senator Hanson said.
The result in the Western Australian by-election follows the party’s victory in the federal seat of Farrer after the retirement of former Liberal leader Sussan Ley and its record result in the South Australian election.
Victorians will go to the polls later this year, while New South Wales is scheduled to hold its state election in early 2027. Senator Hanson has vowed to run candidates in every seat at both elections.
