Former Macedon Ranges Shire mayor Annette Death has been announced as Victorian Labor’s candidate for the seat of Macedon at November’s state election.
The Riddells Creek resident, a Labor Party member for almost 20 years, will contest the seat following the retirement of incumbent MP Mary-Anne Thomas.
Ms Death served as a Macedon Ranges Shire councillor from 2020 to 2024 and was mayor in 2023 and 2024.
“This was never part of my bigger plan. I really enjoyed local government, but with Mary-Anne retiring, an opportunity became available to step up,” she told the Express.
“I’ve had really productive conversations with local Labor branches and I think people are pleased to have a local candidate who understands the electorate.”
Ms Death said her experience working alongside state and federal MPs in local government had given her a strong understanding of community priorities.
“I know the key issues facing people across the Macedon electorate and I feel ready to take that next step and advocate for our community in state parliament,” she said.
She said the increasingly unpredictable political landscape, including the rise of One Nation, meant the election campaign would be unlike previous contests.
“It’s unknown for all of us. We’re going to have to find new ways of campaigning and connecting with people in the community,” she said.
“This election really matters. The decisions made over the next term will shape our community for years to come, particularly around education, healthcare and infrastructure.”
Ms Death said housing affordability and population growth would remain major challenges.
“We need more housing and we’re continuing to grow. It’s about working together to achieve the best outcomes,” she said.
“My local government experience has given me a strong understanding of planning issues and how I can advocate for our community.”
Most recently, Ms Death worked in public policy at St Vincent’s Health.
She was formally announced as Labor’s candidate at a Kyneton Labor Party dinner tonight, attended by former Victorian premier John Brumby.