The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has yet to declare a result in the seat of Flinders, citing the largest number of ballot papers in the division’s history and a complex three-candidate preferred count as the primary reasons for the delay.
As of 7.00pm on Wednesday 8 May, Liberal incumbent Zoe McKenzie remains in a leading position on primary votes, securing 44,425 votes or 41.59% – a negative swing of -1.70% compared to the previous election.
Labor’s Sarah Race has edged into second place with 23,762 votes (22.24%), despite a slight swing against her of -0.61%. Independent Ben Smith is close behind with 23,149 votes (21.67%) and has recorded a notable swing of +21.67%, reflecting strong support for his grassroots campaign.
The final outcome hinges on the three-candidate preferred count. Once the AEC confirms who holds second place – between Race and Smith – preferences from the third-placed candidate will be distributed accordingly. That process will ultimately determine which candidate finishes in first place and claims the seat.
While McKenzie remains in the lead the seat cannot not be officially declared until the preference distribution is complete.
