The loss leaves the Liberal Party with just two seats in the entire metropolitan area of Melbourne. She went on to thank Liberal leader Peter Dutton for his support and leadership during “a very difficult time for our party”, and her “political hero”, John Howard, for his support as well. “But our democracy needs a strong opposition … and the time will come, I think soon, where this country needs a strong Liberal government.” “Tonight was not our night,” she told the crowd. Ms Campbell called Ms Doyle to concede the election before fronting Liberal party members and volunteers at the campaign function. He will return to Melbourne on Sunday morning.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the Tasmanian 120-year anniversary dinner he had spoken to Ms Doyle and congratulated her on the historic win. NCA NewsWire / Luis Ascui Credit: News Corp Australia

Camera Icon Labor candidate Mary Doyle has won the seat of Aston.

The previously safe outer east suburban seat was vacated when Mr Tudge retired in February, triggering Saturday’s by-election and giving Ms Doyle a second run at the job. As of 9pm Saturday, Labor had secured a two-party 6.2 per cent margin against Liberal candidate Roshena Campbell, with counting to continue late into the night.

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