Craig Farrell to recontest Legislative Council seat of Derwent

Tasmanian Legislative Council President Craig Farrell will once again contest the seat of Derwent for the Australian Labor Party at next year's Legislative Council elections.

Tasmanian Labor Leader Josh Willie announced Mr Farrell's candidacy today in New Norfolk, saying "the experienced parliamentarian would continue to be an important representative for the region".

Mr Willie said, "In a minority parliament, Mr Farrell's experience and skills would be valuable to the Labor Party, describing him as a statesman who is respected because he sought common ground".

Mr Farrell, who has represented Derwent for over 15 years, said he was still passionate about the electorate, believing the region could continue to grow and prosper.

"This region has given me and my family so much and I have been incredibly proud to give a fraction of that back by representing the community for the past 15 years in parliament" Mr Farrell said.

"The people who call this electorate home know what a great place it is to live, but they also know how much potential the place has to improve and that's what I'll continue to focus on."

Mr Farrell's experience in public life extends beyond State Parliament, where he was elected to the Legislative Council in 2011; from 2002 until then, he served on the Derwent Valley Council and as deputy mayor of the Derwent Valley from 2009-2011.

Casey Farrell, Craig's son, was also elected Mayor of the Derwent Valley in the recent 2026 Tasmanian Government Elections.

Mr Farrell has also maintained a strong connection to the community through the Lions and Rotary Clubs, plus working with community radio station Tyga FM as a presenter and board member.

The Derwent electorate covers New Norfolk, the Central Highlands and parts of Hobart's Northern suburbs, and Mr Farrell's early preselection gives him an opportunity to begin engaging with communities within these areas.

Mr Farrell said, "I've got four local government areas within the Derwent electorate, and I will treat them all equally, and I'll ensure all people have a voice".

Next year's election is due to be held in May.