Liberal David Basham is claiming victory in the seat of Finniss and thanked his supporters on Facebook.

However Independent candidate Lou Nicholson is waiting for the result to be officially declared.

With 86.1% of the vote now counted, Mr Basham has 9 787 first preference votes, the ALP’s Amy Hueppauff has 5 186 and Ms Nicholson has 4 446.

The Electoral Commission South Australia has the Two Party Preferred vote as 50.7% to Mr Basham and 49.3% to Ms Nicholson.

Mr Basham wrote on Facebook earlier this evening, “Thank you to the people of Finniss who have re-elected me to serve our community in the South Australian Parliament.”

“My gratitude and thanks go to everybody that has been a part of this campaign.

“Huge congratulations to Amy Hueppauff, a clear second on primary votes.

“A fantastic achievement for a first-time campaign and a significant step forward for the young women of our electorate.

“Congratulations to all the candidates: Amy, Louise, Anne, Carlos, Dominic and Joe for their efforts and hard work.

“Being bold to stand up, share and debate ideas is a privilege and fundamental to representing our community.

“The candidates’ hard work has made this election an amazing journey.”

Mr Basham suffered a 13.8% swing against him.

Following his post Lou Nicholson wrote, “As we continue to wait for the final result for Finniss (still!), I am thinking of some of the other Independent candidates I have been lucky enough to connect with over recent months.”

“Airlie Keen, Dianah Walter, Liz Habermann and Cate Hunter.

“Congratulations to each of you for taking on the challenge of running and dedicating the significant time, energy and resources to offering your electorates a strong independent choice.

“Wishing you every success in your next chapters. Whatever they may be, I know your communities are lucky to have you.”