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Former prime minister Tony Abbott’s political career is over after losing to independent Zali Steggall in the Sydney seat of Warringah.
Mr Abbott had held the seat since 1994.
Mr Abbott and Ms Steggall fought a brutal campaign, which Abbott called ‘pretty personal’
- For the latest result, visit ABC’s live coverage.
Big cheers go up at @zalisteggall’s election party.
Ms Steggall, who announced her candidacy in January, presented herself as a climate-focussed alternative, while Mr Abbott is a “climate change denier” according to former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.
Liberal senator Arthur Sinodinos said Mr Abbott had a “certain view of the world”.
In his concession speech, Mr Abbott said that “I am not going to have 25 years spoiled by one night of bad day.”
Mr Abbott said that while it was disappointing for him, it is good news for the Coalition.
“I do congratulate Zali Steggall on what is a magnificent win for her,” Abbott said.
In her victory speech, Steggall said that she “will work collaboratively with all sides of politics so that we can achieve results.”