The announcement came after months of speculation about whether he would run and for what party.
Mr Sali’s nomination has been accepted by the National Party and he will face a preselection contest on Saturday, September 5 against prosecutor Alexander Lew.
“The Shepparton district is a place that I am proud to call home, and it deserves a strong voice in parliament — someone who understands local issues, listens and fights for practical outcomes,” Mr Sali said.
Mr Sali said he chose the National Party because “they’re the party that puts regional Victoria first”.
Mr Sali will continue as mayor of the City of Greater Shepparton, a role he has held since 2022, until the preselection process concludes.
He has confirmed that he will take steps to manage conflicts of interest during this time, including handing over to Deputy Mayor Geoff Akers when needed.
Standing for a Coalition party became a possibility for Mr Sali after state Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe announced on July 21 that she would step down at the next election, after previously intending to re-contest her seat.
Mr Sali was born in Shepparton and lives in the area with his wife and three children.
Mr Sali said that being mayor “has been one of the greatest privileges I’ve had in my life”.
His reason for moving to state politics is that “there are many things across Victoria that need to be rebuilt”.
Mr Sali has family connections to the agricultural industry.
“I’ve grown up knowing exactly how important water is to the region,” he said.
When asked about the rise of One Nation, Mr Sali said “frustration and anger doesn’t deliver outcomes, and I’m focused on what I can deliver”.
His preselection opponent, Mr Lew, welcomed Mr Sali’s announcement and decision to join the Nationals.
“Members now have a clear choice,” Mr Lew said.
“I bring front-line experience prosecuting serious crime in Shepparton, a tough approach to law and order, and years of service to the Nationals and the Coalition.
“I will respect the result, support whoever wins and pledge not to run as an independent or for any other party if unsuccessful.
“I call on Shane to publicly make the same commitment.”
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