Bayside local Sarah Mitchell has officially launched her independent campaign for the seat of Bayside ahead of the 2026 state election, promising to put community ahead of party politics.
<p>Bayside resident Sarah Mitchell has officially launched her campaign for the seat of Bayside, announcing she will stand as an Independent candidate in the 2026 Victorian state election.</p><p>Speaking to a crowd of over 180 supporters at the Brighton Town Hall, Sarah outlined her platform of community-focused representation, promising to fight for better schools, improved healthcare access, and stronger protections for Bayside's environment.</p><p>"I'm not running for a party machine — I'm running for Bayside," Sarah told the crowd. "Our community deserves a representative who answers to you, not to party bosses or political donors. That's what I'm offering."</p><p>The launch event raised over $18,000 in campaign donations and saw more than 60 new volunteers sign up. Sarah said the response had exceeded her expectations. "The energy in that room tonight told me everything I needed to know — Bayside is ready for something different."</p>