WA: Papalia Wins Peel!
Paul Papalia delivered Labor a decisive victory in the Peel by-election held on 3 February 2007.
Date: 01 March 2007
Paul Papalia
Paul Papalia had never been involved in politics before, and worked hard in the lead-up to polling day to meet as many local residents as possible.
“Leading up to the election I went door-knocking and met thousands of different community groups in the electorate. People seemed engaged and offered advice and made me aware of their concerns,” said Paul.
And Paul’s tireless campaigning paid-off. Paul Papalia won the by-election on primary votes and, even more remarkably, he received a swing towards Labor of 1.09%
The Premier of Western Australia, Alan Carpenter, said that the victory was outstanding.
"The outcome was a good one for us,” said Alan. “This victory is a tribute to Paul and his hard work. He is a great person and a good man.”
Standing with his wife, Gillian, and two children at the Secret Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club on election night, Paul said that he will strive to be a good representative.
"I can say that I'm deeply honoured that the people of the Peel electorate have chosen to entrust their representation to me in the Parliament," he said. "Also, I'm gratified that like me, they've recognised that we have a fine Premier and a good solid Government."
The swing towards Labor in the Peel by-election is an historic result.
“The incumbent Party normally receives a negative swing of 8 percent in by-elections, so this outcome is outstanding for Alan Carpenter, Paul Papalia and Labor,” said Bill Johnston, State Secretary of the ALP (WA Branch).
“In fact, the Liberal Party actually received a swing against them despite the circumstances of the by-election. When even Liberal voters won't vote for the Liberal Party with Paul Omedei as leader then there have to be questions asked," he said.
Paul Papalia was sworn in as the Member for Peel when State Parliament resumed on 27 February 2007.
“I want to encourage people to get involved in the political process and come to me with their concerns,” said Paul.
