Jones says thousands backed her call for a ‘new kind of politics’

Independent Keryn Jones with supporters on election night.

Community-backed independent candidate for Fisher, Keryn Jones, said her campaign had already delivered a powerful result — mobilising hundreds, shifting votes, and transforming the political landscape in Fisher.

“What we’ve achieved together over the past few months is nothing short of remarkable,” Ms Jones said. “We’ve proven what’s possible when community comes first.”

“To our 200+ incredible volunteers — who stood at booths, knocked on doors, waved signs, and worked tirelessly behind the scenes — and to our 215+ generous individual donors, along with the 33,000 Australians who support community independents through Climate 200’s national crowdfunding platform — thank you. Our community independent campaign was powered by people who care deeply about our community and believe we can do better.”

While the final count is still underway, Ms Jones on Tuesday (May 6) acknowledged that incumbent MP Andrew Wallace was expected to retain the seat.

Ms Jones called Mr Wallace to congratulate him and wish him all the best for the term ahead.

Reflecting on the broader result, she said: “Thousands of people here — and across the country — have voted for a different kind of politics. The fear, division and spin of the old playbook is wearing thin. Voters are asking for something better.”

While some outlets have called the seat based on early projections, Ms Jones noted that the official result — including whether she finishes in second or third place — won’t be known until the full distribution of preferences is completed after postal votes are due back on Friday 16 May.

“The current voting system is structured around the two major parties. Even when an Independent is in a close third, there’s no clear way to understand how preferences would flow unless they make it into the official two-candidate-preferred count — or unless the AEC agrees to a three-candidate-preferred count, which we’ve consistently advocated for but been denied,” she said. “That full picture won’t be visible until after May 16, so until then, we simply won’t know my final position for certain.”

“Even on current numbers, we’ve done exceptionally well. We’ve shaken up a so-called safe seat, made it competitive, and inspired thousands of people to vote for a new kind of politics.”

She also praised her campaign volunteers whom she said faced misinformation and pressure at polling booths.

“Time and again, they showed up with grace, calm, and fierce commitment to our shared values. That speaks volumes about the type of leadership this community is hungry for.

“Our community independent campaign has started something powerful here. The shift we’ve seen in Fisher is only the beginning — and it was made possible by everyday people stepping up. I’m so proud of what we’ve built together.”