CASTLEMAINE disability support worker Greg Olsen will be Labor’s candidate to challenge sitting MP Anne Webster in the federal election tipped to be called within days.
Last Friday’s announcement came as Family First said its contender for the safe National Party seat would be out-of-home care case worker Ashleigh Grey.
Mr Olsen said he was realistic about the 19 per cent margin in Mallee “but I think it is good to have a choice of candidates”.
“When I was approached (to stand) I considered it an honour to be asked, It’s a big challenge, an uphill battle but important people have choice.”
Mr Olsen said he had travelled into the Mallee electorate last week for meetings in Mildura.
“Talking to people builds a picture of local issues and broader issues,” he said.
Mr Olsen said he believed in equality of opportunity, irrespective of economic background. 
“This principle of `opportunity’ is fundamental to people’s sense of purpose, direction and participation in building meaningful lives, it means that no child should be denied  access to a quality education because of family disadvantage and that people have rights of self- determination to pursue vocational pathways that suit their potential and capacities.”
He also said he was a supporter of business and “the integral part it plays in the economic life of communities throughout Australia. From small businesses in the CBDs of country towns to primary producers - small and large - the commitment and challenges in running a rural business are considerable.”
Details to contact Mr Grey had not been made available. However, the Family First platform says: “Ashleigh has championed the importance of traditional family values, believing that strong families are the foundation of a thriving nation.
“Ashleigh has worked toward creating opportunities that allow families to succeed, with a focus on preserving the sanctity of life, keeping girls and women safe, and protecting the rights of children.”
Other declared candidates are Vaughan Williams (One Nation), Nicole Rowan (Greens) and Chris Lahy (Australian Citizens’ Party).
The election is expected to be held mid-May.