Federal election 2025: Liberals down but not counting themselves out for WA’s new seat of Bullwinkel

Labor has increased its lead in the new WA seat of Bullwinkel to more than 300 votes, but Liberal candidate Matt Moran isn’t publicly conceding defeat yet.

On Facebook, he told supporters it is still too close to call though party sources conceded the trend is against him.

“While we wait for the final result, I want to express my deep gratitude to my incredible campaign team,” Mr Moran said.

“This was a long and dedicated effort, focused on local issues that matter to our community . . . no matter the outcome, I will continue to stand up for you.”

Bullwinkel is the only WA seat that remains undecided in the wake of Saturday’s Federal election that cemented Labor and Anthony Albanese’s position in Canberra.

Meanwhile, Labor’s Josh Wilson said he was “humbled and grateful” after surviving a well-funded Independent challenge in the seat of Fremantle.

He vowed to take up the “great responsibility” with “renewed energy” in the wake of Labor’s sweeping re-election.

Independent rival Kate Hulett campaigned against nuclear-powered submarines and new gas projects, including a proposed extension of WA’s North-West Shelf.

But Premier Roger Cook on Thursday maintained Woodside’s $30 billion project — already approved by the State Government — should go ahead.

“The extension of the North-West Shelf is absolutely essential for making sure that we can continue to bring on, not only current reserves but, future reserves,” he said.

“It’s actually a better way for the whole industry to function. We’re very much looking forward to the Commonwealth concluding their consideration of the proposal.”

Mr Cook said Labor would “sit down and reflect” on two close calls in Fremantle, in the State and Federal polls.