Liberal MP's 15-vote win confirmed after Labor drops Ripon challenge
Almost six months after November's state election the battle for the disputed seat of Ripon is finally over after Labor withdrew its challenge in the Court of Disputed Returns.
Liberal candidate Louise Staley won the seat by 15 votes from Labor’s Sarah De Santis at the poll, the closest margin in Victorian electoral history but the result was challenged by Labor.
The court battle was set for Monday but was adjourned until Tuesday, however a settlement was reached outside of court with Labor filing the withdrawal documents late on Monday.
‘‘The short story is that we have performed a detailed assessment of our scrutineers’ notes and determined that in a recount, we would not fare well,’’ Labor spokesman Kosmos Samaras said.
‘‘So rather than risk going to a hearing and not faring well, we withdrew the petition.’’
Ms Staley said she was very pleased it was all over.
‘‘Labor has in the end decided this is the best course of action to take and have withdrawn and agreed to pay the costs.
‘‘In some respects it is a weight off the shoulders. It’s always better to have certainty, rather than uncertainty.’’
Ms Staley said she had spoken to many constituents about the challenge, but had continued to work as the elected member and now shadow treasurer as she prepared for the handing down of the state budget later this month.