Mayor Anthony Marsh Selected as Liberal Candidate for Nepean By-election
Anthony Marsh has been confirmed as the Liberal Party’s candidate for Nepean, after weeks of reporting on his preselection bid and internal division within local party ranks.
Category Politics
Political related news across the Mornington Peninsula & Frankston
Early Snapshot: What Hastings, Mornington and Frankston Residents Want Prioritised in 2026
STPL News’ Rate Your MP survey is tracking what locals want prioritised in 2026. Early responses point to cost of living, crime, roads and housing as key issues across Hastings, Mornington and Frankston.
Marsh’s Paper Trail Collides With Nepean By-election Reality
Anthony Marsh’s previous written survey responses on party affiliation and political donations are being revisited as the Mornington Peninsula mayor seeks Liberal preselection for the Nepean by-election on 2 May 2026.
Have Your Say: STPL News Launches ‘Rate Your State MP’ Survey
STPL News has launched a community feedback survey inviting residents in Hastings, Mornington and Frankston to rate their local state MP’s performance during the current parliamentary term (2022–2026). Nepean will open after the by-election result.
Marsh Preselection Bid Confirmed
Key claims first reported by STPL News about Anthony Marsh’s bid for Liberal preselection in Nepean have now been confirmed by major media reporting.
Liberals Divided As Senior Sources Flag Mayor Marsh For Nepean Preselection
Senior Liberal Party sources claim Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh has recently joined the party and intends to seek Nepean preselection following Sam Groth’s resignation announcement.
Shock Exit: Sam Groth Quits Parliament, Nepean Thrown Into By-election
Sam Groth has resigned as the Liberal Member for Nepean, prompting a by-election. In a statement dated 4 February 2026, the Leader of the Opposition thanked Groth for his contribution and said the contest would focus on cost of living, crime, health and housing ahead of the November 2026 state election.
‘Victoria Is Not Bushfire Ready’: Firefighter Groups Issue Statewide Warning
Firefighter groups have issued an open letter warning Victoria, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, is “not bushfire ready”, raising concerns about fleet age, funding transparency and hazard-reduction burning as the bushfire season continues.
Sam Groth to Quit Politics, Will Not Contest Nepean at 2026 State Election
Victorian Liberal MP Sam Groth has announced he will not continue in Parliament beyond the 2026 state election, citing pressure on his family and internal party issues. His departure leaves the Liberals with a Nepean vacancy less than 12 months from polling day, as the party is also yet to announce a candidate for Hastings.
Letter to the Editor: Questions That Deserve Answers
Local resident Graham Griffiths raises questions about federal funding, migration settings and humanitarian aid, calling for clearer explanations from government decision-makers in his latest Letter to the Editor.
Jess Wilson Becomes New Victorian Opposition Leader As Liberals Attempt “Another” Reset Ahead Of 2026 Election
Jess Wilson has been appointed Victorian Opposition Leader following yet another Liberal Party leadership change, a year before the 2026 state election. The shift highlights ongoing instability within the party as it works to reset its direction and present a credible alternative to voters ahead of polling day.
Frankston locals invited to put questions to leaders at Ballam Park barbecue
Frankston locals will have the chance to meet Mayor Kris Bolam, Jodie Belyea MP and Paul Edbrooke MP at the Pollies BBQ on Saturday 15 November at Ballam Park.
Push to Establish Marine Sanctuary in Mt Eliza Gains Council Backing
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Stephen Batty has backed a proposal to establish a marine sanctuary along the Mt Eliza coast, aimed at protecting the unique reef system between Daveys Bay and Moondah Beach. Community group Mt Eliza Marine Advocacy Inc is leading the campaign, with broader consultation planned over the coming months.
Locals Lead Parliament Protest Over Mt Eliza Animal Neglect
Locals lead a snap protest at Victoria’s Parliament calling for urgent action over ongoing horse neglect at Maxine Fraser’s Mt Eliza property.
Week 8 of Mount Eliza Horse Protests Draws Long-Term Advocates and Legislative Action
Week 8 of horse welfare protests in Mount Eliza sees renewed calls for action. Meanwhile, advocates urge supporters to sign two state petitions for legal reform.
New Rules for Attending Council Meetings Spark Community Backlash
Mornington Peninsula Shire now requires online registration to attend council meetings. The 'out of the blue' facebook post has generated further criticism from residents who see this as another attempt to silence debate and shut down free speech by the council.
Debate Denied: Climate Motion Shut Down at Council Meeting
Tensions rise at Mornington Peninsula Council's meeting last night following a series of protests against cuts and policy changes.
Protests on the Peninsula: Community Rallies Against Council Cuts to Arts, Climate and First Nations Support
Over 100 locals rallied in Rosebud against Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s funding cuts to arts, climate action, and First Nations support. Community groups demand urgent reversal.
Sixth Week of Protest Outside Mt Eliza Property Amid Ongoing Horse Welfare Concerns
For the sixth week in a row, protesters gathered outside Maxine Fraser’s Mount Eliza property, calling for action over alleged horse neglect.
Chris Crewther MP to Lead 21km Walk for Bowel Cancer Awareness
Chris Crewther MP will lead a 21km coastal walk through Mount Eliza, Mornington, and Mount Martha to raise awareness for early-onset bowel cancer ahead of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.
Flinders Election Result Prompts Reflections from Zoe McKenzie, Ben Smith and Sarah Race
Zoe McKenzie has retained Flinders after a close contest against Ben Smith and Sarah Race. All three candidates have spoken out following the result.
Zoe McKenzie Provisionally Retains Flinders as Count Nears Completion
Zoe McKenzie is set to retain the federal seat of Flinders, leading independent challenger Ben Smith in a close race. The AEC has not yet declared a final result.
Opinion: The Tobacco Wars – A War Never Fought
OPINION: Renee Heath MP argues that the State government’s failure to act on illicit tobacco trade has created perfect conditions for organised crime.
Shire Budget Shake-Up: Councillor Cam Williams Explains New Funding Model
STPL News spoke with Councillor Cam Williams to clarify recent concerns and confusion surrounding changes to the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s budget and funding model.
Shire Not Backing Hastings Club Despite MP News Report
Claims published by MP News this week suggesting the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has “stepped in to save the Hastings Club” have been rejected by local councillor Kate Roper, who says the article is confusing. In a story titled “Shire…
Flinders seat still undecided as record ballot count continues
The Flinders seat remains undeclared as the AEC navigates a record number of ballots and a complex three-candidate preferred count. Zoe McKenzie leads on primary votes and Sarah Race edges past Ben Smith.
Backlash Brewing Over Shire’s Arts Funding Cuts
The Member for Hastings, Paul Mercurio MP, has criticised the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for slashing the Performing Arts Development Fund from $500,000 to $250,000, warning of serious impacts on local arts and culture.
Jodie Belyea Credits Hard Work and Positive Campaign for Dunkley Win
In an interview with RPP FM radio, Jodie Belyea attributes her re-election success to hard work, innovative policies, and personal voter connections in the Dunkley federal election.
Greens Leader Adam Bandt Loses Melbourne Seat in Federal Election Upset
Greens leader Adam Bandt has lost his seat of Melbourne to Labor's Sarah Witty, marking a significant federal election upset and ending Bandt's 15-year tenure in Parliament.
Sarah Race’s Effective Grassroots Campaign – RPP FM Interview
Labor’s Sarah Race ran a strong grassroots campaign in the 2025 Flinders electorate, door-knocking 10,000 homes and nearly matching Ben Smith’s primary vote—despite being outspent by Zoe McKenzie and Smith.
Labor Secures Historic Second Term as Coalition and Greens Suffer Major Setbacks
Labor has claimed victory in the 2025 federal election, returning Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister. Peter Dutton loses Dickson, Greens collapse, and Flinders remains undecided.
Zoe McKenzie Likely to Retain Flinders, But Local Swings Show Regional Divide
Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie holds Flinders in 2025 election. Regional divides emerge; support grows in Somerville but wanes in Rosebud and Dromana. Final results pending.
2025 Live Election Coverage: Dutton Loses Seat
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is projected to lose his Queensland seat of Dickson, with Labor's Ali France leading. If confirmed, this marks a significant political shift and Dutton's first loss since 2001.
Conroy Sign on War Memorial Prompts Election Day Fury
Outrage has erupted in Frankston after a campaign sign for Liberal candidate Nathan Conroy was placed on a local war memorial on election day, prompting swift removal and fierce backlash.
Dunkley Decides: Final Hours of Voting in Crucial Federal Contest
The 2025 federal election is underway in Dunkley, a critical seat for the Albanese Government. Voters have until 6pm to decide between Labor’s Jodie Belyea and Liberal’s Nathan Conroy.
Liberal Stronghold at Risk: Flinders Faces Political Earthquake
The 2025 federal election sees Flinders' long-standing Liberal seat under threat as Independent Ben Smith gains momentum against incumbent Zoe McKenzie.
Election Fatigue Sets In
Election fatigue is rising across Victoria as voters face back-to-back campaigns. With no major electoral break until 2027, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula mental health services are feeling the strain.
Where to Vote on the Mornington Peninsula – Federal Election 2025
Voters on the Mornington Peninsula can cast their ballots on Election Day, Friday 3 May 2024, at polling booths across the region. Early voting options are also available. Here's the full list of locations.
Editorial Ethics in the Spotlight as McKenzie Confronts MPNG Ahead of Election
Zoe McKenzie has renewed her criticism of the Mornington Peninsula News Group, accusing the publisher of printing false letters under fake names.
Crash Settlement Finalised, Andrews Now Facing Defamation Action
Ryan Meuleman has secured a confidential payout from Slater & Gordon nearly 10 years after being hit by the former premier’s SUV. The family is now pursuing a defamation case against Daniel and Catherine Andrews.
Mike Brown Labels Ben Smith a “Con” and Slams Clive Palmer–Teal Preference Deal
In an interview with STPL News, One Nation candidate Mike Brown accused Independent Ben Smith of being insincere and aligned with the Teals and Simon Holmes à Court. Brown also drew comparisons between Holmes à Court and Clive Palmer, labelling both as political “wreckers” amid ongoing campaign disputes.
Jason Smart Quits Federal Race, Slams Party Over Teal Preference Deal
Trumpet of Patriots candidate Jason Smart has withdrawn from the Flinders federal race, slamming his party’s decision to preference candidate Ben Smith ahead of conservative contenders.
Fisheries Cuts Threaten Mornington Peninsula Marine Life and Industry
Victorian waters, including the Mornington Peninsula, face growing concern as the State Government moves to significantly cut fisheries compliance roles, sparking warnings of environmental and industry collapse from local leaders and experts.
Who Do You Stand With? STPL News Wants to Hear From Local Supporters This Election
STPL News invites Flinders residents to share authentic opinions on local election candidates for a special feature, focusing on community voices and pressing issues.
Mayor Responds to Inspectorate Investigation Reports: “Nothing Beyond Routine Checks”
Mayor Anthony Marsh of Mornington Peninsula Shire has downplayed speculation of an investigation by the Local Government Inspectorate, emphasizing routine post-election procedures.
Labor’s $250K Pledge Overshadowed by Liberal’s $5M Somerville Commitment
As the federal election approaches in May, Somerville Recreation Reserve's future is pivotal, with Labor's $250,000 and Liberal's $5 million funding promises competing, highlighting community priorities and the need for feedback on the master plan.
Hastings Club Fallout Exposes Widespread Neglect in Western Port
Prompted by STPL News’ coverage of the Hastings Club collapse, a local volunteer has exposed systemic neglect across sporting facilities in Somerville, Tyabb and Hastings, calling for urgent action.
Frankston City Council’s Call for Support on Key Projects
Frankston Council is urging election candidates to support funding for emergency relief, infrastructure upgrades, and a $11.7M active transport network to better connect the city.
2025 Australian Federal Budget: Winners and Losers
Discover the key takeaways from the 2025 Federal Budget. Find out who benefits from tax cuts, rent assistance, and healthcare funding—and who misses out.
Greens Candidate Lives Almost Two Hours Away
Greens candidate Adam Frogely lives 130 km from Sorrento and 96km from Somerville, raising questions about his ability to represent the electorate. Can passion compensate for distance and perhaps, logic?
