Amelia Hamer to Contest Kooyong Seat for Liberal Party
Amelia Hamer, a 31-year-old executive at a fintech company and grand-niece of former Victorian premier Rupert 'Dick' Hamer, has been selected as the Liberal Party's candidate for the seat of Kooyong in the upcoming federal election. The seat, located in Melbourne's inner east, was held by the Liberal Party from 1945 to 2022, when Independent candidate Monique Ryan won it on a margin of less than three per cent.
Hamer, who studied at Oxford University and has worked in banking, venture capital, and technology, stated that she is running to "fight to ensure future generations can access the same opportunities that past generations have had." She identified cost-of-living pressures and home ownership as key issues she hopes to address.
Former Treasurer Frydenberg Backs Hamer's Candidacy
Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, who previously held the Kooyong seat, expressed his support for Hamer's candidacy on social media. "Congratulations Amelia Hamer on winning today's Liberal Party Preselection for Kooyong," Frydenberg posted. "Looking forward to supporting you and the Party in the campaign ahead."
Liberal Party Aims to Reclaim Seat from Teal Wave
The Liberal Party is hoping that Hamer, a young Liberal blue-blood with a strong academic and professional background, can win back the Kooyong seat from Monique Ryan, who was part of the "teal wave" of independent candidates who won seats in traditionally Liberal-held areas in the 2022 election.
Hamer's Background and Qualifications
Amelia Hamer, the granddaughter of former Liberal Senator David Hamer, has deep roots in the party. She studied philosophy, politics, and economics at Oxford University and worked in financial trading and venture capital roles in London and San Francisco before returning to Melbourne to take up a policy adviser role with former financial services minister Jane Hume.
Hamer's Priorities and Goals
Hamer emphasized her commitment to listening to the community and addressing their concerns. She stated that she is "on the same side" as young people and wants to work together for a better future. Her priorities include tackling housing affordability, reducing cost of living pressures, and promoting economic growth for all Australians.
Liberal Party Expresses Confidence
Victorian Senator and shadow home affairs minister James Paterson praised Hamer's qualifications and experience, stating that she will be "a champion for young Australians." He highlighted her strong community ties and her understanding of the challenges facing the electorate.
The Liberal Party will hold a preselection for the Goldstein seat on Sunday, where former MP Tim Wilson is expected to be chosen to contest the seat against Zoe Daniel, the Teal candidate who defeated him in 2022.
