Geelong will have its own Voices independent candidate in the upcoming federal election, with Voices of Corangamite endorsing the Bellarine’s Kate Lockhart.
An agricultural scientist with a background in regional Victoria, Ms Lockhart will contest the seat of Corangamite, which could potentially be critical in the Coalition’s bid to regain power.
Ms Lockhart, who narrowly lost a bid for a seat on Geelong council in a two-way race for Murradoc Ward, emphasised her years spent advocating for services and infrastructure in her local community.
She currently balances her career, which has seen her live and work in China, Thailand and Europe, with her family, raising two daughters while her son studies at Deakin University.
“We must stand by our communities in times of hardship and crisis,” Ms Lockhart said.
“I will fight for real cost-of-living relief and make secure housing a priority. My pledge to voters is clear; I will listen, work hard, and focus on what matters most.”
Voices of Corangamite is part of the broader teal independent movement, which made a historic impact in the 2022 federal election, delivering six seats to independent candidates focused primarily on addressing the developing climate emergency such as Zali Steggal and Zoe Daniel.
The fifth confirmed candidate for Corangamite, Ms Lockhart joins ALP incumbent Libby Coker, Liberal candidate Darcy Dunstan, Mitch Pope for the Greens and Surf Coast councillor and Libertarian Party’s Paul Barker.
Ms Lockhart has lived and worked in the Bellarine for nearly 20 years and was recognised with the City of Greater Geelong’s Women in Community Life Award for Climate Action in 2023.
She said she was passionate about gender equality and has dedicated her life to community service, contributing to Bellarine Landcare, Drysdale Soccer Club and Peninsula Sharks Football club.
“The Community Independents movement is built on action – on climate, gender equity, integrity, and transparency,” Ms Lockhart said.
“These values are what I have worked for my entire life. I want to bring real, practical leadership to Corangamite that aligns with these principles.”
