Reaction Labor state secretary Cameron Milner says his party is not conceding defeat and says the 8 per cent swing to Labor is a slap in the face for the Prime Minister John Howard. The Federal Opposition leader, Kim Beazley, says while the seat is too close to call, he is greatly encouraged by Leonie Short's performance. The Prime Minister, John Howard, also says the result is too close to call. Mr Howard says that whatever the outcome, the Liberal candidate, Bob Tucker, should be congratulated on an outstanding campaign. Visit The Public Record for more information about the Ryan by-election and links to related sites.
Asthma medications face tests.
The election campaign is coming as Australian retailers brace themselves for massive impacts from last month's terror attack in New York. The Anglican Church in Melbourne has attacked Australia's treatment of asylum seekers, with some members of the clergy calling for a royal commission.