The surprise resignation of Wollongong MP Noreen Hay has prompted Deb Langton to put her hat into the ring to contest the by-election for Labor.

Deb Langton at a CMRI fundraiser

The Director of regional law firm Carter Ferguson has been a member of the Labor Party for 20 years, and previously sought preselection for the same seat in 2003.

“I’ve always been interested in entering politics, but have got on with my life while waiting for another opportunity to come along,” she says.

“I’ve incorporated my values into my firm so that we are involved in giving back to the community in many ways.”

At the moment, it unclear whether a rank and file pre-selection process will occur or whether ALP head office will choose a candidate. The by-election is expected to be held in November.

“There are so many things up in the air at the moment. Until I get chosen as the candidate it will be business as usual,” says Ms Langton.

While Ms Langton is from an old Gerringong family and grew up there, she has lived most of her life in Wollongong.  Her law firm has offices in Gerringong, Kiama, Goulburn, Wollongong and Nowra.