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

Libby Mettam says she’s opposed to the surrogacy bill

Mettam said she's concerned the bill will leave children who no one wants to raise.

One Nation announce Sean Bell as their newest federal senator

Sean Bell has previously served as an adviser to party leader Pauline Hanson.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor announces Australian tour

The dance queen will be in Perth in February 2026.

‘English Teacher’ is back for a second series

Brian Jordan Alvarez is back as teacher Evan Marquez in the Disney comedy series.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Libby Mettam says she’s opposed to the surrogacy bill

Mettam said she's concerned the bill will leave children who no one wants to raise.

One Nation announce Sean Bell as their newest federal senator

Sean Bell has previously served as an adviser to party leader Pauline Hanson.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor announces Australian tour

The dance queen will be in Perth in February 2026.

‘English Teacher’ is back for a second series

Brian Jordan Alvarez is back as teacher Evan Marquez in the Disney comedy series.

King Princess embraces the chaos on new album ‘Girl Violence’

Mikaela Straus speaks to OUTinPerth about making their new album, branching into acting, and tabloid rumours.

Libby Mettam says she’s opposed to the surrogacy bill

Mettam said she's concerned the bill will leave children who no one wants to raise.

One Nation announce Sean Bell as their newest federal senator

Sean Bell has previously served as an adviser to party leader Pauline Hanson.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor announces Australian tour

The dance queen will be in Perth in February 2026.