Dickson was formed in 1992 and had not previously been contested, however it was notionally held by the Labor Party.

Independent candidate Walter Pegler died on 3 March, 10 days before the federal election.

[1] Following the return of the Labor Party to government, Prime Minister Paul Keating announced the makeup of the Second Keating Ministry.

Michael Lavarch was elected to the ministry by the Labor Caucus on 23 March in the portfolio of Attorney-General.

[1] Following his victory, Lavarch was sworn into the ministry on 27 April.