Premium Content:

Independent Cathy McGowan announces her retirement from politics

The member for Indi, Cathy McGowan has announced she will not contest the next federal election.

- Advertisement -

McGowan is an independent who sits on the crossbench and has served two terms in the federal parliament. She won the seat at the 2013 election ousting prominent conservative Liberal Sophie Mirabella.

Announcing her departure from politics she gave support to local doctor Helen Haines to replace her in parliament. There has also been speculation that the Nationals deputy leader Bridget McKenzie might attempt to make a move to the lower house by contesting the seat.

McGowan, who is 65, said she would contest the seat for a third term and was proud of the work she’d done during her time in the parliament.

The Liberal candidate at the next election will be local Steve Martin, not to be confused with Tasmanian politician Steve Martin… or banjo playing wacky comedian Steve Martin.

OIP Staff


 

 

Latest

HBO teases new season of ‘The Comeback’ among 2026 lineup

Steaming service HBO Max has given a sneak peek at next year's offerings.

The United Kingdolls are touring Australia this January

RuPaul's Drag Race UK season 2 favourites Bimini, Tayce, A'whora and Lawrence Chaney are coming down under.

Celebrate the new year with Fremantle Arts Centre’s annual concert

Spend the first day of 2026 than good vibes, great company and an outstanding selection of live local music.

Head down to The Rams ‘Have a Try’ day and give rugby a go

Is 2026 your year to take a new sport?

Newsletter

Don't miss

HBO teases new season of ‘The Comeback’ among 2026 lineup

Steaming service HBO Max has given a sneak peek at next year's offerings.

The United Kingdolls are touring Australia this January

RuPaul's Drag Race UK season 2 favourites Bimini, Tayce, A'whora and Lawrence Chaney are coming down under.

Celebrate the new year with Fremantle Arts Centre’s annual concert

Spend the first day of 2026 than good vibes, great company and an outstanding selection of live local music.

Head down to The Rams ‘Have a Try’ day and give rugby a go

Is 2026 your year to take a new sport?

The Year in Review | October 2025

There was podcast controversy, court challenges, badly named clubs and the Gay Games announcement!

HBO teases new season of ‘The Comeback’ among 2026 lineup

Steaming service HBO Max has given a sneak peek at next year's offerings.

The United Kingdolls are touring Australia this January

RuPaul's Drag Race UK season 2 favourites Bimini, Tayce, A'whora and Lawrence Chaney are coming down under.

Celebrate the new year with Fremantle Arts Centre’s annual concert

Spend the first day of 2026 than good vibes, great company and an outstanding selection of live local music.