Mrs Mirabella has declined an invitation to a question-and-answer session at Benalla Performing Arts Convention Centre on July 29, saying that she already has portfolio commitments that night.

Greens candidate Jenny O’Connor, Labor candidate Robyn Walsh, as well as independents Jennifer Podesta, Voice4Indi’s Cathy McGowan and Alan Lappin have accepted the invitation.

Mr Lappin has not as yet registered as a candidate but has made it clear he will do so.

Women’s Health Goulburn North East is hosting the event in conjunction with the launch of its four-year strategic plan, which outlines priority areas for the health and wellbeing of the region’s women.

The organisation’s executive officer, Susie Reid, said Mrs Mirabella had been approached for a date that would suit her but she had failed to respond.

“Our members and the community will be very disappointed to miss out on meeting her and asking questions about what she plans to do for the electorate,” she said.

“We hope that if her situation changes she would attend because the invitation remains open.”

Mrs Mirabella said she believed only one date had been put to her.

“I made them an offer to meet shadow health minister Peter Dutton on that morning and they have accepted it,” she said.

“During election periods, there are lots of forums.

“Unfortunately on this night, I already have a commitment.

“There are always opportunities for constituents — they are not limited to a designated forum and my door is always open.”

Ms Reid said while she appreciated Mrs Mirabella’s offer to meet Mr Dutton, women’s wellbeing was more than just issues surrounding health.

“There are more things that impact on women’s health and wellbeing and that’s why local representation is so important,” she said.

The forum, which will run from 6pm to 8pm, is open to the public.