ian goodenough

Ian Goodenough's Independent Bid: What it Means for the 2025 Federal Election in WA

The political landscape in Western Australia is heating up as the 2025 federal election approaches. One name generating significant buzz is Ian Goodenough, the former Liberal Party member now running as an independent for the seat of Moore. With a traffic volume indicating considerable public interest, Goodenough's independent candidacy adds an intriguing layer to an already complex electoral battleground. This article delves into the reasons behind his departure from the Liberal Party, the potential impact on the upcoming election, and what it all means for voters in WA.

From Liberal Stalwart to Independent Contender: The Goodenough Story

Ian Goodenough's journey from a long-standing Liberal MP to an independent candidate is a story of political upheaval and shifting allegiances. For years, Goodenough represented the seat of Moore in the House of Representatives, becoming a familiar face in WA politics. However, his recent resignation from the Liberal Party in 2024, culminating in his independent candidacy for the 2025 election, has turned heads and raised questions about the stability within the Liberal ranks.

According to Parliament of Australia records, Ian Goodenough has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2013, serving on various committees and parliamentary positions. His profile highlights his previous affiliation with the Liberal Party, a detail now juxtaposed against his current independent status.

The catalyst for this dramatic shift appears to be a pre-selection battle within the Liberal Party. Reports indicate that Goodenough lost his bid for Liberal pre-selection to former Army officer Vince Connelly. This defeat seems to have been a significant factor in his decision to leave the party and contest the election as an independent. Some reports suggest that Goodenough considered running as an independent after feeling undermined by factional powerbrokers within the party.

The Battle for Moore: A Marginal Seat in the Spotlight

The seat of Moore, which Goodenough is contesting, is a key battleground in the upcoming election. Described as a marginal Liberal seat in Perth's northern suburbs, Moore is currently held by the Liberals with a slim 0.9 per cent margin. This makes it a prime target for Labor and a crucial seat for the Liberals to defend.

The fact that Goodenough, a former Liberal MP, is running as an independent adds another layer of complexity to the contest. His presence on the ballot could split the vote, potentially jeopardizing the Liberal Party's chances of retaining the seat. With Vincent Connelly now representing the Liberal Party in Moore, the race has become a three-way contest with potentially unpredictable outcomes.

WA's Election Landscape: Key Seats and Shifting Tides

The broader context of the 2025 federal election in WA is one of shifting political tides and intense competition. Recent reports suggest that Labor is increasingly confident of retaining its gains in WA, while the Coalition is hoping to regain lost ground. Several key seats are in play, and the outcome of the election in WA could have a significant impact on the overall result.

The creation of a new seat, Bullwinkel, further complicates the electoral map in WA. This new seat, named after WWII nurse and POW Vivian Bullwinkel, is a "Frankenstein stitch-up" of several existing seats across the Perth Hills and central Wheatbelt. The addition of Bullwinkel means that WA now has 16 MPs in the lower house, adding another dimension to the election dynamics.

The Impact of Goodenough's Independent Candidacy

Ian Goodenough's decision to run as an independent could have several significant impacts on the election outcome:

• Vote Splitting: As mentioned earlier, Goodenough's presence on the ballot could split the vote, particularly among traditionally Liberal voters. This could make it more difficult for the Liberal candidate, Vincent Connelly, to win the seat.
• Increased Competition: Goodenough's independent bid intensifies the competition in Moore, forcing all candidates to work harder to win over voters. This could lead to a more robust and engaging campaign, with candidates focusing on local issues and concerns.
• Potential for Negotiations: Depending on the overall election result, Goodenough, if elected, could hold a crucial swing vote in the House of Representatives. This would give him significant leverage to negotiate with the major parties and advocate for the interests of his constituents.

What Voters Need to Know Before Heading to the Polls

As West Australians prepare to head to the polls, it's important to be informed about the key issues and the candidates vying for their support. With the federal election coming so soon after the recent state election, voters may be experiencing election fatigue. However, it's crucial to remember that this election will determine the direction of the country for the next three years.

Here are a few key things to consider before casting your vote:

• Understand the Issues: Familiarize yourself with the major policy platforms of the different parties and candidates. Consider how these policies might impact you, your family, and your community.
• Research the Candidates: Learn about the backgrounds, experience, and policy positions of the candidates running in your electorate. Attend public forums, read candidate profiles, and engage with them on social media.
• Consider the Implications of a Split Vote: In seats like Moore, where the margin is tight and an independent candidate is in the mix, consider the potential impact of splitting the vote. Think about which candidate is most likely to represent your interests and whether your vote could inadvertently help elect a candidate you oppose.

The Future of Moore: Possible Scenarios and Outcomes

Predicting the outcome of any election is a challenging task, and the race in Moore is particularly difficult to call due to the presence of an independent candidate. However, here are a few possible scenarios:

• Liberal Victory: If the Liberal Party can consolidate its support and prevent too much vote-splitting, Vincent Connelly could win the seat. This would be a significant victory for the Liberals and a boost to their overall election chances.
• Labor Gain: If Labor can capitalize on any dissatisfaction with the Liberal Party and attract voters who are open to change, they could win the seat. This would be a major gain for Labor and a sign that they are making inroads in traditionally Liberal areas.
• Independent Upset: While it's always an uphill battle for independent candidates, Ian Goodenough could pull off an upset victory if he can tap into local sentiment and convince voters that he is the best person to represent their interests. This would be a major shock to the political establishment and a testament to the power of independent candidates.

Conclusion: A WA Election to Watch Closely

The 2025 federal election in WA promises to be a closely contested affair, with several key seats in play and the potential for significant shifts in the political landscape. The independent candidacy of Ian Goodenough in Moore adds an extra layer of intrigue to the election, making it a seat to watch closely. As voters head to the polls, it's important to be informed, engaged, and ready to make their voices heard. The outcome of this election will have a significant impact on the future of WA and the nation as a whole.