Tom Ingleton
McEwen is where Melbourne fades into rolling hills and fast-growing townships– and once again, it’s shaping up as one of the key battlegrounds for the federal election, May 3.
Held by Labor’s Rob Mitchell since 2010, the electorate covers 2288 square kilometres across Victoria’s north and north-east, sweeping through Gisborne, Macedon, Wallan, Whittlesea and Diamond Creek.
Following a recent redistribution that shifted 7400 Kilmore voters into the neighbouring seat of Nicholls, the Labor margin has increased slightly– from 3.3 per cent to an estimated 3.9 per cent.
But with its mix of outer suburbs and regional towns, McEwen remains a seat that could swing.
Nine candidates have put their hands up to represent the electorate this year, each hoping to appeal to a diverse voter base.
Rob Mitchell returns for Labor, facing Jason McClintock for the Liberals, and a crowded field that includes Greens candidate Marley McRae McLeod, Legalise Cannabis’ Tom Forrest, Animal Justice’s Chloe Nicolosi, and One Nation’s Jeremy Johnson.
Other contenders include Julio G Valencia for Family First, Erin McGrath for the progressive FUSION Party, and Ali Antoniou from Gerrard Rennick’s newly launched People First movement.
Key local concerns include housing, infrastructure, climate action and the protection of green spaces as suburbia creeps northward.
McEwen is no stranger to close contests– with Mr Mitchell losing by just 31 votes in 2007 and winning in 2013 by 313 votes – and 2025 is shaping up to be no different.
Here’s what some of the candidates have to say. All candidates were contacted, but not all responded before deadline.
Marley McRae McLeod – Greens
I’m a student and mental health peer worker, deeply committed to community, justice, and meaningful change. In McEwen, I see firsthand the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, mental healthcare inaccessibility, and climate inaction. McEwen is diverse and growing, yet we are too often overlooked by politicians lacking the ambition to create real change. The public transport and local infrastructure is inadequate and mental healthcare remains out of reach for many. I believe in the power of lived experience—listening to those most affected, means we make better-informed decisions. The Greens’ plan will transform our community. We must vote for change.
Erin McGrath – FUSION
Hello, I’m Erin, a proud resident of McEwen. At 37, I combine my experience in customer service and disability advocacy to drive meaningful change. As a firsthand NDIS user, I understand the system’s gaps and am committed to reforming it for better support. My priorities include tackling the cost of living, improving healthcare access, upgrading road infrastructure, and championing Indigenous rights. I believe in ensuring every voice is heard, from those in aged care to diverse communities. When you vote for me, you’re choosing a dedicated advocate for a supportive and inclusive future. If it matters to you, it matters to me—it’s that simple.
Rob Mitchell – Labor
I’m Rob Mitchell, a proud local and your member of Parliament. As a young apprentice, I chose to call our community home. It is where I raised my family. I know that families are doing it tough – that’s why Labor is working to make it easier for everyone with: Expanded bulk billing, tax cuts for every taxpayer, $300 in energy bill relief, more investment in local roads, cheaper childcare, 20 per cent off HECS debts and fee free TAFE. Tackling the cost of living is my number one priority and I am committed to working everyday to deliver for our community.
Jason McClintock – Liberal
I love my community, and want to give back. In McEwen, there are so many communities that have been neglected, and I believe we need a change in local advocacy to ensure we get our fair share.
Only a Coalition government led by Peter Dutton has a plan to provide sustainable cost of living relief. We will deliver most Australians up to $1200 in tax relief when they lodge their tax return for the upcoming 2025-26 financial year, and we will cut the petrol tax by 25 cents a litre, saving families with two cars approximately $1500 a year. Australians cannot afford another three years of Labor. It’s time to get Australia back on track.
Chloe Nicolosi – Animal Justice Party
I’m a lifelong advocate for animals and a proud candidate for the Animal Justice Party. With a background in tech, law, and psychology, I’m passionate about using smart, compassionate policy to protect animals, our environment, and our communities. I’m fighting to end live exports and factory farming, support ethical innovation like cultivated meat, and push for real solutions to the housing crisis. I’m deeply committed to the people of McEwen and ready to be a strong voice for the region; one that stands for justice, sustainability, and kindness for all.
