Video link – https://www.facebook.com/CathyMcgowanForIndi/videos/608626709594682/


Indi MHR Cathy McGowan has announced that she will not stand for re-election in this year’s Federal Election.

Ms McGowan said the “time was right” and that Dr Helen Haines was the “right candidate”

Ms McGowan gave a press conference this morning (Monday).

She issued a media release:

“As you know, I have been thinking about succession planning for some time. On Saturday in Benalla, Helen won unanimous support and she is ready to begin work today,” Ms McGowan said.

“I have decided it’s the right time and she is the right person to receive the baton.

‘”ven with this succession planning process underway, I remain as MP for Indi until the election is called. I will continue to give the job 100 per cent of my time, effort and energy.

“It remains business as usual in the Indi electorate offices and my staff and I look forward to continuing to deliver great things for the electorate.”

Ms McGowan said Indi had led by example, with many more communities standing up and demanding more from their representatives.

“Indi’s remarkable journey has changed the Australian political landscape. All governments take notice of independents and crossbench members now. Our communities now know that I can, and have delivered for them.

“Voters want their interests considered ahead of party politics and personal ambition. Helen and I will be working closely together over the next few months to ensure Indi maintains strong voice in Canberra, particularly on issues that are unique to rural and regional Australia.

“My hope is that all of Indi’s communities support our new orange candidate and our amazing Indi journey goes from strength to strength.

“I’m proud of what we have achieved in six years. I will continue to be involved in my community. I will support, mentor and advise Helen through the campaign and when she becomes our representative in Canberra.”