A Sri Lankan born Labour Party member, Jagath Bandara, is contesting the July 2 Australian Senate Elections from the New South Wales state.

Bandara, a member of the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union, has been active in the union movement for two decades.

Jagath Bandara is the first ever Sri Lankan person of Sub continent heritage and the community to be nominated for a Federal Senate ticket by the NSW Labor party.

Speaking to OZLANKA, Bandara said: "Ever since the day I arrived in this country, I have tirelessly worked with all sectors of our diverse community, worked hard collectively to bring justice for low paid employees and help many workers have the voice they deserve in their respective jobs. The trust that the community has shown in me is an honour and I am grateful for the recognition given to my work".

A federal election to determine all 226 members of the 45th Parliament of Australia (150 for House of Representatives and 76 for Senate) will take place on Saturday 2 July 2016 after an extended eight-week official campaign period. It is the first double dissolution since the 1987 election. A double dissolution is when elections for both Houses are held.

There will be 12 Senators elected from New South Wales. ABC predicted that Labour will win 4 seats and possibly a fifth.