Last modified on Sat 22 May 2021 08.18 EDT
The Nationals’ David Layzell has taken an early lead in the Upper Hunter byelection in New South Wales, but it may be days before a winner is declared in the crucial vote.
Both major parties are sweating on the results, which could push the Gladys Berejiklian government further into minority, or increase the pressure on Jodi McKay’s position as Labor leader.
A few hours after voting closed at 6pm on Saturday, Layzell was polling about 30% of first preference votes, with Labor’s Jeff Drayton on about 20%.
Independent Kirsty O’Connell, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers’ Sue Gilroy, and One Nation’s Dale McNamara were all polling around 10%.
Nationals candidate takes early lead in NSW Upper Hunter by-election sbs.com.au - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from sbs.com.au Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.