The Nationals launch ‘the big Bendigo blitz'

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud will spearhead The Nationals’ big Bendigo blitz today, as Nationals MPs from all over the state of Victoria and the country support The Nationals’ candidate for Bendigo Andrew Lethlean, culminating in the launch of his election campaign.

The Nationals joining the doorknocking, small business visits and local forums include Federal Deputy Leader of The Nationals Perin Davey, Federal Leader of The Nationals in the Senate the Hon Senator Bridget McKenzie, the Hon Darren Chester MP, Dr Anne Webster MP and Sam Birrell MP.

State MPs including Victorian Leader of The Nationals Danny O’Brien and a raft of volunteers will help fight for Bendigo also.

Mr Littleproud said he was proud and excited to launch Mr Lethlean’s campaign, with more than 200 people expected tonight at Mr Lethlean’s launch.

“Andrew Lethlean and The Nationals are building real momentum in Bendigo,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Andrew is an outstanding candidate and part of a team that will help fix Bendigo’s cost-ofliving crisis.“

We are turning Bendigo green and gold today and throughout the campaign. If we don’t win Bendigo, families risk getting another three years of Anthony Albanese.

“Bendigo families will ask themselves this election, are they better or worse off after three years of Labor?

“Sadly, you would be hard pressed to find one single person who is better off or feels safer.

“The Nationals are leaving no stone unturned to win this seat and bring more common sense to Canberra, with Andrew representing the people of Bendigo.

“We believe in Andrew because we believe in Bendigo.”The big Bendigo blitz will include;

• Doorknocking and holding personal conversations with local families.
• Undertaking a health forum with the Pharmacy Guild to discuss Labor’s cuts to regional health and the lack of GPs in Bendigo.
• Speaking with local business owners and industries who are struggling under Labor’s cost-of-living crisis.
• Listening to local grocers and hearing how Labor’s bad policies are hurting families at the checkout and those along the supply chain.

Mr Lethlean said over the past few months of doorknocking, the cost-of-living crisis, government wastage and inflation were the biggest concerns for families.

“People in our region are really feeling the pinch when it comes to the cost-of-living, whether it’s buying groceries, paying bills or keeping up with rents or mortgages, locals are telling me something needs to change,” Mr Lethlean said.

“Our region is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family, but it can be even better.

“With the support of The Nationals’ team here today, we are committed to delivering Bendigo its fair share – a seat that has been taken for granted by Labor for 26 years.

“Our plan will fix the basics and get us back on track, with cheaper energy, affordable homes and support for small businesses. I’m determined to make a difference for our community."