General News
27 May, 2026
Labor name Polwarth candidate
LABOR has announced their Polwarth candidate ahead of the November state election, with Hutch Hussein saying she can be a direct voice in government rather than a letter writer who whinges from the sidelines.
Ms Hussein lost to current Member of Polwarth Richard Riordan by 1644 votes at the last election, gaining 48.21 per cent of the total votes after preferences were distributed.
She said she had received positive feedback from a variety of community groups who benefitted from advocacy she undertook during her campaign.
“I was really encouraged by local community groups and local Labor Party members to run again and really provide an option for the community to have that direct voice into government,” Ms Hussein said.
“I met with a few groups in the Camperdown area last time – I remember visiting the Camperdown and District Community House and the food relief they were providing to the community.
“I imagine, given the cost of living challenges, there’s greater need now.
“I remember funds being given to the Camperdown Showgrounds during the last campaign.
“I don’t presume to know what Camperdown needs four years on, but I’m looking forward to getting to know the local community, getting back in touch and finding out what their needs are.”
One of the key focuses of her campaign will be ensuring community groups receive the support they need – whether it’s more facilities for sporting clubs, funding to continue their work or ensuring families are supported.
“I’m really passionate about the foundations of what makes a community,” Ms Hussein said.
“Affordable housing is a key one for communities, and there’s been a lot of growth in different parts of Polwarth.
“I want to make sure people can access their local health and education facilities, good roads and education and employment opportunities are key parts of what make a good society.
“Social connection – that ability to have a sense of belonging in the community and making sure people can afford to access opportunities regardless of where they’re living in our state – is also important.”
Prior to her political career, Ms Hussein had a career as a social worker and advocate which she said had seen her supporting young people, people experiencing family violence and those doing it tough.
“I know the pressures families are currently facing and how important it is to have facilities available,” she said.
“In my five-month campaign last time, I secured $19 million in funding for schools in Lismore, Cobden and Colac West, which hadn’t been upgraded for over 70 years.
“They’re now going to have modern classrooms for our kids to learn, and it’ll create jobs in the construction phase as well.
“It’s really an opportunity to make sure people elect someone who can be a direct voice in government rather than someone who is a letter writer and whinges from the sidelines.”