The race for Farrer, and a strange saga that left the Liberals in shock
Sydney Morning Herald
by Tony WrightFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The race to fill the vacant seat of Farrer, following Sussan Ley’s departure from parliament, has become a high-stakes political contest with unpredictable consequences. The byelection in this vast NSW electorate is shaping up as a test for new Coalition leader Angus Taylor, who faces potential challenges from multiple candidates. Historically conservative, Farrer has seen unexpected upsets, most notably in 1984 when Tim Fischer of the Nationals defeated the favored Liberal candidate, John Roach, who had confidently stepped away from the campaign.
The electorate’s history is steeped in political intrigue and dramatic turns. In 1984, Roach, then mayor of Albury, left the election campaign to accept a prestigious honor in the Netherlands, leaving Fischer to capitalize on his absence. Fischer, known as “Two Minute Tim” for his rapidfire campaigning, hired a vintage plane to tour the electorate, creating a memorable and effective campaign. His victory shocked the Liberal establishment and remains a cautionary tale.
The current race features a crowded field, with the Liberals, Nationals, One Nation, and independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe all vying for the seat. This fragmented competition could split the traditionally dominant conservative vote, making it harder for any one party to secure victory. Labor’s potential decision to remain on the sidelines further complicates the race, leaving the outcome uncertain.
The contest in Farrer is significant not only for its historical precedents but also for its potential to reshape the political landscape. A strong performance by One Nation or an independent candidate could signal growing voter disillusionment with mainstream parties. Meanwhile, the Coalition faces internal divisions as it unites behind Taylor, whose own ties to the electorate through his current seat of Hume add a layer of intrigue.
For readers interested in global politics, the Farrer byelection offers insight into the challenges of governing coalitions and the unpredictable nature of democratic contests. The race highlights how even in stable democracies, political campaigns can
Verticals
worldaustralia
Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/14/2026