Article summary:
City of Stirling councillor Lisa Thornton has declared her candidacy as an independent for the Western Australian state seat of Churchlands. The announcement by Churchlands Independent followed months of searching for a suitable representative ahead of the 2025 election. The seat is currently held by Labor’s Christine Tonkin, while City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas has been confirmed as the Liberal Party of WA’s contender.
Ms Thornton, a Doubleview resident, has served as a City of Stirling councillor since 2019 and was reappointed in 2023 for another four-year term. Explaining her decision to run, she stated: “I’m running for Churchlands because our community deserves a representative who listens, acts and puts people first. As an independent, I’m free from party politics and vested interests, which means I can focus 100 per cent of my efforts on delivering for the people of Churchlands.”
She emphasised her commitment to being a community-driven voice, adding: “Churchlands' residents understand the value of an independent voice that isn’t tied to party agendas. I’m ready to stand up as this independent voice for our community without fear or favour.”
Addressing her political competition indirectly, Ms Thornton remarked on her website: "The major party candidates in this election have notable careers, and I respect their work. But there’s a big difference between public profile and public service. I’m not here to climb a political ladder or build a media career.”
Her candidacy reflects a broader movement in the western suburbs, inspired by Curtin MP Kate Chaney’s success as an independent in the federal election. Other community-driven independent campaigns have also emerged. In nearby Nedlands, City of Subiaco councillor Rosemarie de Vries will run against Liberal candidate Jonathan Huston and Nationals WA’s James McLagan, while GP Rachel Horncastle has announced her independent bid for Cottesloe.
Ms Thornton’s campaign aligns with the rising trend of independent candidates aiming to provide an alternative to major party representation. Her focus remains firmly on serving Churchlands residents with a locally driven, non-partisan approach.