Ms McBain told the media in Merimbula she won the campaign, which had been viewed as a test of leadership for Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Labor leader Anthony Albanese, on grassroots campaigning.

"No region has suffered more than Eden-Monaro," she said.

"It’s been an election that was fought on local issues first and foremost, it's been about bushfire relief, it's been about COVID-19 and the economic impacts of that on our communities, it's been about drought, on a whole range of local issues."

The former mayor of Bega Council said she was well prepared for her job.

"It's going to be a big job but I am ready to hit the ground running. I know all of the mayors across this region. I know all of the state members, I am prepared to work with everybody because right now what we need to see is action and outcomes for the people of Eden-Monaro."