Amelia Hamer Wins Malvern Preselection | Victorian Politics

Hamer to Contest Victorian Seat of Malvern, Spearheading Liberal Push in 2026

A former federal candidate, Amelia Hamer, has secured preselection to challenge for the state seat of Malvern in Melbourne’s inner east, setting the stage for a key contest in the 2026 Victorian election. The proclamation follows the decision by former opposition leader Michael O’Brien to step down from contesting the next election, opening the door for Hamer to lead the Liberal Party’s charge in this traditionally safe seat.

did you know? – Malvern has been held by the Liberal Party continuously since 1945, making it a historically safe seat. However, recent shifts in voter preferences suggest a potential for increased competition.

A New Generation for the Victorian Liberals

The Victorian liberal Party is positioning Hamer as a central figure in a new generation of leadership. “Hamer joins Jess Wilson’s next-generation Liberal team as the first candidate selected for the upcoming Victorian election in 2026,” the opposition stated in a release. This strategic move signals a clear intent to refresh the party’s image and appeal to voters ahead of the next state poll. A photograph released by the Liberal Party depicts Hamer walking alongside newly elected leader Jess Wilson, visually reinforcing this message.

From Kooyong to Malvern: A Familiar battleground

Hamer’s political journey has seen her contest the federal seat of Kooyong earlier this year, where she narrowly lost to self-reliant MP Monique Ryan. While unsuccessful in that bid, the experience provides valuable insight as she now turns her attention to state politics. During the Kooyong campaign, Hamer faced scrutiny regarding her personal financial situation, specifically criticism for presenting herself as a renter while owning investment properties. This episode will likely remain a point of discussion as she campaigns in Malvern.

Pro tip: – Understanding a candidate’s past campaigns and any controversies is crucial for voters. Researching their record provides a more complete picture of their positions and character.

The Landscape of Malvern

The electorate of Malvern, encompassing over 20 square kilometers, is known for its affluent suburbs including Toorak, Armadale, Kooyong, malvern, Malvern East, and parts of Glen Iris. Historically a stronghold for the Liberal Party as 1945, the seat presents both an chance and a challenge for Hamer. Her deep roots in the community – having grown up, attended school, and continuing to reside in Malvern – are expected to be a key asset in her campaign.

key Policy Priorities and Local Concerns

According to a statement released by the Liberal party, Hamer’s primary focus will be on addressing what she describes as “Labor’s era of waste and financial mismanagement.” she aims to stimulate economic growth by “bringing business back to Victoria” and improving the overall quality of life for residents of the Malvern community.

Hamer directly addressed local concerns, stating, “Locals are fed up with rising crime, rising cost of living, and a government that is tired and completely out of touch.” She pledged to prioritize these issues if elected.

Reader question: – What specific policies will Hamer propose to address the rising cost of living and concerns about crime in the Malvern electorate?

Why, Who, What, and How did it end?

Why: Amelia Hamer is contesting the Victorian seat of Malvern as former opposition leader Michael O’Brien stepped down, creating an opening for a new Liberal candidate. The Liberal Party sees this as an opportunity to refresh its image and appeal to voters.

who: Amelia Hamer, a former federal candidate, is the Liberal Party’s candidate for the state seat of Malvern. She is being positioned as part of a new generation of leadership alongside Jess Wilson, the newly elected Liberal leader.

What: Hamer is challenging for the state seat of Malvern in