A Liberal candidate who has been vocal about opposition to new apartment construction in Melbourne, positioning herself as a renter to appeal to young voters in the Kooyong seat, has come under scrutiny after confirming ownership of two properties in other cities. Amelia Hamer, the grand-niece of former Victorian premier Rupert Hamer, admitted to owning an apartment in Canberra and a flat in London. Despite her claims of being a renter in Melbourne, her higher profile has been tainted by these revelations.
Hamer defended her property ownership by stating that she purchased the apartments during her time living and working in London and Canberra, taking out mortgages to do so. She is now renting in the suburb of Hawthorn in Melbourne. In one of her Instagram videos, Hamer voiced her opposition to state government plans for developing higher-density zones, arguing that people prefer houses to apartments.
Jonathan O’Brien, the lead organizer of YIMBY, countered Hamer’s stance, arguing that Boroondara, where Hawthorn is located, and Melbourne’s Bayside area are ideal locations for increased density. O’Brien contended that restrictive planning policies are responsible for higher home prices, locking out migrants and younger populations.
Despite her own property investments, Hamer has a profile on the Liberal party’s website stating her commitment to making home ownership more accessible for young Australians and fighting for policies that support this goal. Prior to the election, Hamer had not disclosed her role as a landlord, which raises questions about her authenticity in representing renters’ interests.
The controversy surrounding Hamer’s disclosures highlight the complexities and challenges that political figures face in aligning their personal lives with their public stances, especially on issues like housing affordability and tenure. Her situation has sparked a broader conversation on the disconnect between political rhetoric and personal practice, raising questions about trust and representation in politics.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/07/amelia-hamer-liberal-candidate-pitched-herself-as-renter-owns-two-properties-ntwnfb
