Sydney by-election announced

Voters in the state seat of Sydney will go to the polls on Saturday, October 27 to choose a new representative, the NSW Electoral Commission has announced.

The by-election will be held to replace Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, who has resigned as Member for Sydney, due to NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell’s so-called ‘Get Clover Bill’, which prevents councillors from holding positions in State Parliament.

As first tipped by Alt Media, Ms Moore has endorsed Alex Greenwich as her successor.

Mr Greenwich – convenor of gay marriage lobby group Australian Marriage Equality – said he was focused on issues such as planning controls, gay and lesbian rights, animal welfare, the environment, crime prevention and support for small business.

“It’s vital for Sydney to continue to have a strong Independent voice championing these issues,” he told Alt Media.

Expanding on his priorities, Mr Greenwich was keen to point out that gay and lesbian rights weren’t just about marriage.

“It’s also about exemptions to the Anti-Discrimination Act – at the moment small businesses, religious organisations and private schools can legally sack someone for being gay or lesbian.”

Mr Greenwich said he would “be a voice against state governments stripping planning powers from local councils” and “a strong advocate for small business, as a small business owner myself”.

Liberal candidate Shayne Mallard – also openly-gay – outlined similar priorities, telling Alt Media he was focused on small business, transport, policing, crime prevention and the environment.

But he said he was better placed to deliver outcomes than his opponents.

“NSW is governed by the Liberals under Premier Barry O’Farrell,” he said.

“I’m a senior member of the Liberals and have the Premier’s ear, so I’m better able to achieve outcomes.”

Mr Mallard rejected the notion that he might be “punished” by voters angry that Clover Moore had been removed by Liberal legislation.

“That’s in the past now – the choice for the people of Sydney is who can best represent their interests going forward,” he said.

Mr Mallard and Mr Greenwich will be running against Greens candidate Chris Harris.

Mr Harris was unavailable for comment but has previously told Alt Media the Greens were “the best choice to fill Clover’s big shoes. We share many of the same values.”

Drew Simmons, who previously signaled he would stand for the Democrats, told Alt Media he had pulled out.

“I’ve decided not to run, for personal reasons,” he said.

“There will not be a Democrats candidate in the by-election.”

In a surprise move, the ALP has also chosen not to field a candidate.

The three candidates will go head-to-head at a candidates’ forum hosted by Alt Media on October 22.