Farrer by-election: Liberal Senator James Paterson involved in scuffle with One Nation volunteer at Farrer poll booth

In a video taken by Paterson on his phone, and from a separate angle captured by a bystander, the volunteer can be seen taking Paterson’s phone after the pair were involved in an oral debate about One Nation’s candidate David Farley outside a polling booth in Albury.

“Liberal-National gang, you wouldn’t spend the money if you didn’t think it would be defamatory to change the vote,” the volunteer said, calling Paterson a “lying prick.”

The volunteer then realized that Paterson was filming the exchange and responded angrily by trying to take his phone.

“Don’t make videos without my damn knowledge,” he said, prompting Paterson to claim the volunteer had just attacked him.

“That’s an assault, you just committed an assault… you just took my phone away from me, that’s an assault.”

The volunteer was eventually separated from Paterson by other people who witnessed the exchange, including other One Nation volunteers.

“I condemn in the strongest terms aggression of any form on the campaign trail, and I will not hesitate to take action when made aware of bad behavior,” he said.

“I want to reaffirm my commitment to respectful behavior and inclusive participation in our democratic process,” he added, saying he had also spoken to Paterson to make sure he was okay.

“A robust debate on polling booths is a healthy thing, but it should never become physical,” he said.

“Anyone running for public office must accept legitimate scrutiny of their record, including One Nation.

“Voters have the right to know that David Farley was a Labor member, aspiring candidate and donor before making a decision about who will represent them in Farrer.”

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