Mr Smith confirmed that he had received the party’s endorsement, becoming the third candidate to publicly declare their intention to run for the district.
Mr Smith told The Riv he had no plans to step down as mayor or as a councillor at this stage, but that his ultimate decision depended on the support of his fellow councillors and the shire’s chief executive.
He said that he was having, and would continue to have, discussions with all relevant parties about the appropriateness of his position on council.
Mr Smith joins Nationals candidate Brett Hosking and Greens candidate Zoe Cook, who both announced their intentions to run earlier this year.
Under Victoria’s Local Government Act (2020), councillors who run for federal or state office are not required to stand down while they campaign.
If Mr Smith or Ms Cook, who is a Campaspe Shire Councillor, are elected to the Victorian Parliament, they will have to stand down from their respective councils.
Candidates can officially nominate for the state election between November 3 and noon on November 9.
Early voting opens on November 18 with the election day falling on Saturday, November 28.
All people who are eligible to be on the Victorian electoral roll must be enrolled with correct information by 8pm on Tuesday, November 3.
To check if you’re enrolled or to update your details, visit www.vec.vic.gov.au/enrolment/enrol-to-vote
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