The Return to Politics: Craig Buchanan to Contest Secret Harbour By-Election
From an explosive council resignation to a state parliament bid, the former Rockingham Councillor has been officially endorsed as the Legalise Cannabis WA candidate for the upcoming Secret Harbour by-election.
Wade McColl (16/07/2026)
Dr. Craig Buchanan Legalise Cannabis WA Candidate. Secret Harbour by-election. Photo: Supplied
Just months after his bombshell resignation from the City of Rockingham over a fierce governance and gambling policy dispute, Dr. Craig Buchanan is stepping back into the political spotlight.
In an exclusive statement provided to the Baldivis Times, it has been confirmed that the Legalise Cannabis WA Party state executive has officially endorsed Dr. Buchanan as their candidate for the Secret Harbour by-election.
The by-election, triggered by the sudden resignation of former minister Paul Papalia on July 6, 2026, has quickly become a highly contested race. While major parties are scrambling to finalise their candidates ahead of the August 29 polling day, Buchanan’s entry introduces a highly visible, locally experienced wildcard into the mix.
A Track Record of Defiance and Advocacy
Dr. Buchanan made headlines in late April when he abruptly resigned his position on the Rockingham Council. Citing a profound loss of confidence in the City’s administrative procedures, he walked away in protest after alleging that City officers bypassed an explicit 2018 Outdoor Events Policy to approve the TABTouch promoted Lark Hill Race Cup.
At the time, Buchanan did not hold back, publicly stating he was unwilling to sit opposite staff who he believed had purposefully misled Councillors.
Just days after his departure, the former Councillor attended Nimbin's MardiGrass, continuing his advocacy for cannabis law reform while simultaneously drawing attention to Rockingham's ongoing red bin crisis.
From Local Council to State Parliament
While some focused on his immediate pivot to advocacy, it was actually a continuation of his established career. Buchanan currently serves as a Research Officer and Senior Advisor for the Hon. Dr Brian Walker MLC in the Legislative Council. He previously served as an advisor for the Hon. Aaron Stonehouse MLC from 2017 to 2021.
His CV paints the picture of a formidable intellectual and experienced professional. Prior to emigrating to Australia in 2003, Buchanan served with the Royal Naval Reserve in the United Kingdom. He holds a Ph.D. in English Literature from the University of Western Australia, an M.Phil from the University of St Andrews, and a BA with Honours from the University of Stirling.
Locally, he brings significant grassroots experience, having been elected twice to the City of Rockingham council, first in 2019 and again in 2023, representing the area's most northerly portion.
With the official endorsement now secured, Dr. Buchanan has confirmed he is taking leave from his advisory role in Dr. Walker’s office to focus entirely on the campaign.
As the Secret Harbour by-election officially kicks into gear, the addition of a vocal, policy-driven candidate like Dr. Buchanan ensures this race will be one of the most closely watched political battles in the southern corridor.