UPDATE: The 48th Federal Parliament is gearing up for a significant transformation as approximately 40 new politicians prepare to make their mark in Canberra. The session is set to resume on July 22, 2025, and these newcomers bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences that could reshape Australian politics.
Among the standout figures is Matt Smith, a towering presence at over two meters, who recently secured the Leichhardt seat for Labor after nearly two decades of Coalition dominance. Smith, a former basketball player, credits his community ties forged during his time with the Cairns Taipans for his election victory. “At the height of the global financial crisis, people dipped into their own pockets to keep the team afloat,” he stated, emphasizing the community’s spirit that inspired him to serve as a politician.
In a distinct twist, Warwick Stacey, a newly elected senator from One Nation, brings an unconventional background. After dropping out of high school, Stacey ventured to southern France, where he worked as a handyman and teacher, eventually becoming a kidnap response consultant. “I’d like to bring my experience,” he said, highlighting a desire to stand out among politicians with less life experience.
On the other hand, Rebecca White, the MP for Lyons, comes with considerable political experience, having served 15 years in Tasmania’s parliament. “I’m really excited about the opportunity to make change,” she expressed, eager to leverage her new role in a federal majority to advance initiatives she previously could not pursue.
In another notable victory, Tim Wilson of the Liberal Party made headlines as the only Liberal to reclaim a seat from a ‘teal’ independent at the recent election. His win in Goldstein was a hard-fought battle, taking almost a month to finalize after a close recount. “I think that actually hit me with a sense of responsibility,” he remarked on the weight of his singular success within the party.
Additionally, Sarah Witty, a seasoned foster carer, shocked the political landscape by defeating former Greens leader Adam Bandt to bring the Melbourne seat back to Labor for the first time in 15 years. “The appetite for change was clear,” she said, reflecting on the unexpected yet significant shift in voter sentiment.
As these new politicians prepare for their inaugural session, the implications for their respective communities and Australia as a whole are profound. With diverse backgrounds and fresh perspectives, they are poised to address pressing issues and advocate for their constituents like never before.
Stay tuned for updates as these new members of parliament set to work on July 22, 2025, and reshape the future of Australian politics.
