Australian Labor Party (ALP) representative Joel Fitzgibbon has been the Federal Member for Hunter since 1996 and will have his name next to two other men on the ballot this time around.

Former Upper Hunter Shire mayor and current councillor Michael Johnsen announced his intention to run for the seat as the Nationals candidate last month.

Buchanan based Chris Parker is the Greens candidate.

All three agree that the Hunter should see more money flowing into the region.

Hot topics for the three candidates in the lead up to the August 21 election are expected to be the mining tax, air monitoring, Singleton bypass, the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), a sustainable environment, renewable energy sources and infrastructure.

The opportunity for unenrolled voters to register closed at 8pm on Monday night but those wishing to change their address can do so until 8pm tomorrow night online at www.aec.gov.au, over the phone

on 13 23 26 or in person at a local post office.