CountryMinded New England byelection candidate Pete Mailler says make most of king-maker position

The 46-year-old grain and cattle producer recognised the natural sympathy people have towards former MP Barnaby Joyce and his disqualification, but he was adamant there was a lot more to think about in this election.

“The voters in New England have an extraordinary opportunity to influence politics positively for their electorate and the nation because this election effects the Coalition’s one seat majority,” Mr Mailler said.

“New England voters have got a genuine opportunity to secure a better political deal from this election.

Read more: Who’s in, out and on the fence for the New England byelection

Mr Mailler was clear to spell out he was not advocating for a change in government. But for New England to get the most of its king-maker position, voters “must not return the Nationals”.

“The Coalition will be motivated to retain office for the maximum possible term,” he said.

“They must deal with whoever holds the seat of New England on behalf of the electorate, unless that person is already a member of the Coalition.

“In other words, Barnaby Joyce can’t leverage the political power on offer to the electorate of New England, to get a better deal from this Government from this election.

“This election is a pivotal moment in the future of New England and for rural and regional Australia generally. This election is an opportunity to show that the New England electorate can’t be taken for granted by any political party and is an opportunity to secure better political outcomes for our rural and regional communities.”

Mr Mailler has previously stood as CountryMind’s senate candidate and served as the party’s chairman.

The party was formed to “restore an uncompromised voice for rural and regional Australia”.

In 2016 election, Mr Mailler’s brother David, stood for the party and received 1.4 per cent of the primary vote.