Former federal Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer has been endorsed as the Liberal Party candidate for the state seat of Malvern in the upcoming Victorian election. This decision follows a party meeting on Sunday, where Hamer was selected to represent the party after former opposition leader Michael O’Brien announced he would not seek re-election.
Ms. Hamer previously ran for the federal seat of Kooyong earlier this year but was narrowly defeated by teal independent Monique Ryan. Despite the setback, Hamer’s political aspirations remain undeterred as she joins Jess Wilson’s next-generation Liberal team. The Liberal Party highlighted her selection as a pivotal step in their strategy for the 2026 Victorian election.
Background and Political Landscape
The Malvern electorate, covering affluent suburbs such as Toorak, Armadale, and Kooyong, has been a stronghold for the Liberal Party since its inception in 1945. The area is known for its socio-economic affluence and has historically leaned towards conservative representation. Michael O’Brien, the current member, has held the seat comfortably, but his decision to step down opens the door for new leadership.
Amelia Hamer, who grew up in Malvern and continues to reside there, is seen as a local candidate with deep ties to the community. Her campaign is expected to focus on local issues, leveraging her personal connection to the area to appeal to voters.
Campaign Focus and Challenges
In a statement, the Liberal Party outlined Ms. Hamer’s priorities, emphasizing a commitment to ending what they describe as “Labor’s era of waste and financial mismanagement.” They aim to revitalize business in Victoria and improve the quality of life for Malvern residents.
“Locals are fed up with rising crime, rising cost of living, and a government that is tired and completely out of touch,” Ms. Hamer stated. “We will tackle crime, ease cost of living pressures, and make it easier to do business here again.”
However, Hamer’s campaign is not without its challenges. During her previous run for Kooyong, she faced criticism for presenting herself as a renter while owning two investment properties. This controversy could resurface and impact her credibility among voters concerned about housing affordability and transparency.
Implications and Future Prospects
The preselection of Amelia Hamer marks a strategic move by the Liberal Party to rejuvenate its image with fresh faces and new ideas. As the first candidate announced for the 2026 Victorian election, Hamer’s campaign will likely set the tone for the party’s broader electoral strategy.
Political analysts suggest that while the Malvern seat remains a safe bet for the Liberals, the party cannot afford complacency. The rise of independent candidates and shifting voter sentiments, as seen in the federal election, could pose unforeseen challenges.
Looking ahead, the Victorian election will serve as a litmus test for the Liberal Party’s ability to adapt and resonate with a changing electorate. As the campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on how candidates like Amelia Hamer navigate the political landscape and address the pressing issues facing their constituents.
