With swings of at least 5 per cent to the ALP in all three seats, sitting MPs Alan Griffin, Simon Crean and Anna Burke have been returned to federal Parliament with healthy buffers.

All will be chasing a berth on Prime Minister-elect Kevin Rudd's front bench.

BRUCE

Bruce MP Alan Griffin said a combination of WorkChoices and the former Liberal government's lack of ideas and energy had led to a change in government.

Mr Griffin won a 5 per cent swing to give him an 8.5 per cent buffer on his previously marginal seat.

Liberals candidate Angela Randall suffered a 5.9 per cent swing in primary votes, while support for the Greens, Family First and the Democrats was relatively steady.

Mr Griffin hoped his broad opposition portfolio experience in areas such as sport, consumer affairs and veterans affairs would lead to a ministerial position.

"It's all up to Kevin. He's made it clear, it's for him to decide."

CHISHOLM

Chish olm MP Anna Burke said she would put her hand up for a ministerial spot after a 6 per cent swing in her previously marginal seat.

Ms Burke sits on an 8 per cent buffer, with primary majorities in most booths, including a surge of support in Glen Waverley.

Meanwhile, primary support for Liberal candidate Myles King dropped by 4.9 per cent, the Greens and Family First attracted marginal swings, but the drift in Democrats votes continued.

Ms Burke said she sensed voters were after a move back to a more compassionate society.

"I think we'll see a change for the better."

She said climate change seemed to be the No.1 concern for Chisholm voters.

"They were concerned that the Howard Government had not been dealing with that in any shape, size or form."

HOTHAM

Hotham MP Simon Crean said it was a wonderful feeling to see the Labor Party elected after more than 11 years.