Rugby league veteran Terry Campese has opened up about his brief foray into politics, explaining his decision to withdraw from the race for Labor candidate for Monaro. Campese, who transitioned to local government after retiring from a distinguished playing career, was encouraged by the Labor Party to pursue a state MP role, believing it to be the "next level" beyond local council.
He officially took on the candidacy in December 2022 but withdrew by February 2023. The decision followed intense media scrutiny stemming from an incident years prior, which Campese described as "vulgar." He recounted facing persistent reporters and photographers at his home, noting that the public narrative contained "50 per cent truth."
Campese, who played 139 games for the Canberra Raiders across 11 seasons, stated that the political experience took a significant toll on him and his family. This ordeal solidified his realization that state politics was not the path for him.
Now, the 41-year-old is fully focused on his coaching aspirations within rugby league. After serving on the local council and joining a local A-grade coaching staff post-retirement, Campese has advanced to become the head coach of the Townsville Blackhawks' Queensland Cup side. He has guided the team to a top-three finish in 2025 after they placed ninth in 2024.
His ultimate goal is to secure a head coaching position in the National Rugby League (NRL). Campese expressed his loyalty and passion for the Raiders, his former club, and hopes to one day return in a coaching capacity. He believes that working with young men in the sport is particularly rewarding.
Beyond his coaching ambitions, Campese remains active in philanthropy through the Terry Campese Foundation, which he established over a decade ago. The foundation initially raised funds for other charities before focusing on youth and homelessness. He also advises current players nearing the end of their careers, encouraging them to explore diverse professional experiences before retirement to avoid future regrets, suggesting trial work placements as a valuable step.