CITY of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali has officially nominated for pre-selection as the National Party candidate for the Shepparton District ahead of the 2026 Victorian State Election.
Mr Sali was advised last Wednesday evening that his nomination had been accepted by the Nationals, with pre-selection process set to conclude this Saturday, September 5.
In a statement, Mr Sali said the Shepparton District deserved “a strong voice in Parliament” who understood local issues and would advocate for practical outcomes.
He said his experience as Mayor had reinforced his belief that regional communities needed strong regional representation.
“This work aligns with the values of The Nationals, and I share their commitment to backing regional communities, agriculture and local businesses, tackling crime, fixing our roads, protecting water security and fighting for the fair investment regional Victoria deserves,” he said.
Mr Sali, who has been Mayor of Greater Shepparton since 2022, said serving in the mayoral role had been one of the greatest privileges of his life and had allowed him to work alongside the community through both positive periods and challenging times.
“It is the people of our region that I am most proud of and want to continue to represent at a state level,” he said.
Mr Sali will continue in his role as Mayor and fulfil his responsibilities until the pre-selection process concludes on Saturday, September 5. He said he would have more to say once the outcome was announced.
Mr Sali is the second candidate vying for the National Party’s endorsement for the Shepparton District, with prosecutor and farmer Alexander Lew announcing his ambitions to represent the seat last month.
If successful, Mr Lew has said he would be a representative that is tough on crime, has zero tolerance for corruption, stand up for Australian values, and cut taxes and red tape.
“I welcome Shane’s decision to join the Nationals and contest the preselection. Being a National requires an enduring commitment to our party and its values – one that extends beyond a single election,” said Mr Lew.
“Members now have a clear choice. I bring frontline experience prosecuting serious crime in Shepparton, a tough approach to law and order, and years of service to the Nationals and the Coalition. Members can judge Shane on his record as mayor and his recent decision to align himself with our cause.”
“A rank-and-file ballot is essential. I will respect the result, support whoever wins and pledge not to run as an independent or for any other party if unsuccessful. I call on Shane to publicly make the same commitment.”
