But Ms Smith has told Fairfax Media that she would not preference Mr Taylor on how-to-vote cards, which could be the difference in what is shaping up as a close battle. Sonia Smith Ms Smith said she felt "sick" after an Australian Christian Lobby candidates' forum on Friday night, in which she felt Mr Taylor revealed views to roll back abortion laws. She said Mr Taylor had not clearly revealed his views on this issue, focusing on sticking to party lines on other topics. "He has just been a salesman for the party," she said. "These views need to be brought to light. For me it was very disturbing, even though it was a Christian view, but not everyone agrees with that view."

Ms Smith said she would leave it up to voters to decide who to preference and would not commit to saying voters should preference Labor over Mr Taylor. But in a blow to Ms Smith, the Nationals said preferences were a matter for the party's president and state director. The Liberal Party referred Fairfax Media to the Nationals' statement. Ms Smith, a former Liberal Party member, described the situation as a "dilemma", however. Given the marginal nature of the seat it could throw Mr Taylor's campaign into turmoil. The Liberal Party has spent a huge amount of time and resources in the seat hoping it can counteract losses in Melbourne. It is understood that the Nationals have put few resources into winning the seat, with resources devoted to other campaigns ahead of Buninyong.

"I can't live with myself, that we are going to put someone in who is going to be as divisive on that issue," Ms Smith said. "I am seeking to win. I should make that point. Mr Taylor wouldn't comment on preferences and the impact it could have on his campaign. When asked if he planned to campaign within the Coalition to roll back abortion laws, he refused to answer, saying only: "One thing is very clear: the Premier has made it clear he will not change the laws in place." Early this month, Unipollwatch reported that Ms Smith had some informal discussions with the Greens in the past. With the Ballarat Courier