August 24th, 2026Running for state government for Macedon

Michael Seton, a former government superannuation fund chief executive, is running as an independent candidate for the Macedon electorate in the November 2026 Victorian State Election.
Mr Seton said the state government’s financial position was dire.
“We need people with financial management experience like me to put their hand up for Parliament to help fix this situation. We cannot continually increase our debt, it’s not fair on future generations,” Mr Seton said.
“The state’s debt is so high that the annual interest bill is $8.9 billion, or about $1 million every hour, 24 hours a day. That is devastating for taxpayers. Think how useful that money would be if, instead, it was used to benefit the community.”
Mr Seton said he was also concerned at what he heard from fellow residents in Woodend. “They are worried about the poor condition of roads across the state, ever- increasing energy costs and state taxes, poorly maintained public schools, businesses closing down, job opportunities being lost in regional Victoria and the mammoth state debt. Few people seem happy with the government.”
Mr Seton said it was likely to be a very close election.
“We don’t know who will win government, so voting for anyone other than an independent candidate will risk having a member for Macedon who has no access to government for the next four years.
“If I am elected, voters can be assured that I will work with the elected government to help reduce debt responsibly, resolve pressing issues ignored by the current government and promote the best interests of the Macedon electorate. Because I’m an independent, I’ll be able to do that, irrespective of which party forms government.”
Mr Seton said he is not accepting any donations and will donate $10,000 every quarter to local not-for-profit organisations in his electorate if he is elected.
“A Member of Parliament gets a very good salary, so I feel that it’s only fitting that I give back a significant part of that salary to worthy not-for-profit organisations in my community.
“I’ve had a great career. It’s time to use my significant experience to help turn Victoria around and advocate strongly for the benefit of the Macedon electorate.”
Link: www.michael4macedon.com.au

Former Macedon Ranges Shire mayor Annette Death is the Labor candidate for the seat of Macedon at November’s state election.
The Riddells Creek resident was a Macedon Ranges Shire councillor from 2020 to 2024 and mayor in 2023 and 2024.
Ms Death told media the election was never part of her plan.
“I’ve had really productive conversations with local Labor branches and I think people are pleased to have a local candidate who understands the electorate.
““I know the key issues facing people across the Macedon electorate and I feel ready to take that next step and advocate for our community in state parliament.
“This election really matters. The decisions made over the next term will shape our community for years to come, particularly around education, healthcare and infrastructure.”
Housing affordability and population growth are major challenges, she said.
“We need more housing and we’re continuing to grow. It’s about working together to achieve the best outcomes.
“My local government experience has given me a strong understanding of planning issues and how I can advocate for our community.”

Meanwhile, another former Macedon Ranges Shire mayor, Kate Kendall is the Liberal Party’s candidate for Macedon.
Ms Kendall is a mother raising her three daughters with her husband on their farm in Kyneton. She is the former president of Business Kyneton.
Her professional background includes working as a journalist, community builder, digital director and business advisor.
Ms Kendall was the founder and CEO of three companies as well as a start-up accelerator for women founders called Atto, backed by the state government.
She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Melbourne and a Masters of Business (Marketing) from RMIT University.
Ms Kendall says she is passionate about regional entrepreneurship, innovation in government, the future of work, rural tourism, supporting families and empowering local communities.

Victoria’s Health Minister Mary Anne-Thomas announced in April that she was stepping down from her ministerial responsibilities and would not contest her seat at the Victorian election.
In a media release, Ms Thomas said representing the people of Macedon and serving as a cabinet minister had been an incredible privilege.

Words: Donna Kelly | Images: Contributed