Kate Chaney, a teal independent candidate, accuses Seven West Media of running a smear campaign against her. This follows media criticism of her stances on WA issues, including Woodside’s North West Shelf project and the live sheep export ban.
The Sunday Times' front page is cited as an example, with Chaney claiming a quote was taken out of context. A video by Seven West's Ben Harvey is highlighted as particularly contentious, criticizing teal independents and Chaney's family ties to former Woodside chairman, Michael Chaney.
Chaney's significant financial backing from Climate 200 ($260,000) is central to the criticism. Seven West Media's editor dismissed Chaney's claims as “nonsense”. Further criticism came from Brian O’Donnell of Australian Capital Equity, a Seven West Media shareholder, who detailed his concerns about Climate 200 funding on LinkedIn.
Chaney denies changing her positions on live exports or the North West Shelf, maintaining her support for WA farmers and emphasizing environmental and financial considerations for gas projects. She emphasizes the marginal nature of the Curtin seat and the Liberal party's strong campaign.