After nearly a quarter of a century representing Melbourne’s north-west, Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou is bowing out, leaving the seat of Calwell wide open for the first time since 2001.
Calwell stretches across 191 square kilometres on the city’s fringe, taking in the diverse and rapidly growing suburbs of Broadmeadows, Dallas, Coolaroo, Meadow Heights, Greenvale, Roxburgh Park, Craigieburn, and Mickleham.
It’s long been a Labor stronghold, with the party holding the seat since its creation in 1984 and currently enjoying a 12.4 per cent margin.
However, with Ms Vamvakinou’s retirement, the race to inherit this deep-red patch is more open than usual.
Thirteen candidates have thrown their hats into the ring – one of the biggest fields in the country.
Labor’s new contender, Basem Abdo, hopes to retain the seat on a platform of social services, housing, and infrastructure to match the area’s bumping population.
But a crowded and eclectic ballot means every vote will count.
Liberal candidate Usman Ghani will test whether the Coalition can make inroads in the working-class electorate, while the Green’s Ravneet Garcha is pushing climate policy and social justice as core priorities.
Also vying for attention are independents like current Hume councillor and former mayor Carly Moore and Samim Moslih, and fringe parties including One Nation, Legalise Cannabis, the Citizens Party and the Trumpet of Patriots.
Ravneet Garcha- the Greens
I’m proud to stand with the Greens, the only party in Parliament consistently pushing for a ceasefire in Palestine and standing up for human rights. As a young woman of colour raised in Melbourne’s north-west, I’ve seen how disconnected politics has become. Calwell has been neglected; there’s no hospital in Craigieburn, rising living costs, and little investment in our future. I’m running to change that. The Greens are fighting for free dental and mental health in Medicare, real local investment, and justice at home and abroad. If elected, I’ll be a bold, honest voice for the people of Calwell.
Basem Abdo- Labor Party
Our area was the manufacturing heartland of Australia. Growing up, we saw what good, secure, well-paying jobs did for our community. And we saw what happened when the Liberals tore the manufacturing heart right out of our area. And with it went local businesses across our supply chain. That’s why I’m proud to stand as Labor’s candidate in Calwell, so I can make sure our voice is heard in Canberra. To fight to bring back our local industry that gave us secure jobs and better pay– jobs that provided long-term careers. For skills and opportunity. And Labor’s strong agenda – from Medicare, education right through to cheaper childcare. And I know this because I’ve grown up here – and this area is worth fighting for.
Assad Issa- Trumpet of Patriots
The people of Calwell have been forgotten for too long by the major parties, our roads, schools and hospitals have been neglected. It’s time we had someone that cares about the community and will fight for our area. Trumpet of patriots is the only party that is putting Australia and its people first. We have real solutions to the cost of living, housing and the rental crisis . It’s time to vote for change.
Carly Moore- Independent
I’ve lived here my whole life, raised my four kids here, and served as a proud former mayor. I’m running because our community has been overlooked for far too long. We deserve better – more teachers, more doctors, better roads, and real cost-of-living relief. As an accountant and community leader, I’ll bring integrity, experience, and a strong local voice to Canberra. I’m not tied to any party – I’ll fight for what’s right for us. If you’re ready for real change and genuine representation, I’d be honoured to earn your vote.
Dr Gianni Del Rosario-Makridis- Legalise Cannabis Party
Dr Gianni Del Roasario is a medicinal cannabis scientist and educator. As the first Victorian to earn a PhD in medicinal cannabis plant genetics, Dr Gianni passionately advocates for increased investment in cannabis research, believing it can significantly improve health, reduce medical costs, and foster community harmony in Calwell. Enhanced cannabis research will provide jobs, improve alternative medicine treatments and guide smarter prescribing, creating affordable, culturally aligned healthcare solutions. This will empower Calwell residents to manage stress, chronic pain, and mental health effectively, improving family well-being, fostering community harmony, and reducing dependence on harmful substances. Voting for Dr Gianni means backing evidence-based solutions that build a healthier, more connected, and compassionate community.
