Date: 19 August 2026

More Victorian councillors have confirmed they will contest the upcoming state election, adding to a growing list of local government figures entering parliamentary contests.

Among the latest announcements reported by the Herald Sun, Moonee Valley City Council councillor and former AFL footballer John Barnes, Gannawarra Shire Council mayor Garner Smith, and Baw Baw Shire Council councillor Ben Lucas have all put their names forward as One Nation candidates.

They join former Casey mayor Stefan Koomen, former Bass Coast mayor Rochelle Halstead, and current councillors Chris Burson at Greater Geelong, and Melbourne Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell.

Baw Baw CEO Tilla Buden has confirmed that Cr Lucas intends to seek a leave of absence at a future date, to be tabled a Council meeting, and effective until the election is complete.

As the election draws closer, more high profile mayors and councillors are expected to announce candidacy for various seats around the state.