UPDATE: Independent MP Nicolette Boele has officially secured her position as the representative for Bradfield, Australia’s most marginal seat, following a concession from her Liberal challenger, Gisele Kapterian. Kapterian announced her decision to withdraw a legal challenge on July 23, 2025, four months after the contentious May federal election.
In a surprising turn of events, Kapterian stated she is now confident in the integrity of the election results after a thorough review of the ballot papers. Boele triumphed in the tightly contested race, winning by a mere 26 votes, solidifying her role in a seat that was once a Liberal stronghold.
“Serving this community is the privilege of my lifetime,” Boele expressed in a heartfelt statement. “I will continue to serve with integrity, care, and dedication.” She emphasized the significance of every single vote and praised Australia’s electoral safeguards, noting, “While we watch checks and balances erode in other countries, our electoral and judicial processes are something we can genuinely celebrate here at home.”
Boele’s victory marks a significant shift in the political landscape, as she dramatically cut the Liberal margin down to 4 percent during the previous election against former Liberal minister Paul Fletcher. After Fletcher’s retirement, Boele claimed the razor-thin victory, initially prompting the Liberal Party to contest the results.
Kapterian, reflecting on the election process, acknowledged the challenges of ballot paper interpretation. “In other words, after asking the on-field decision to go to the video umpire, we have had the opportunity to review the play and can now be satisfied the right call was made overall,” she stated, confirming her decision to cease pursuing a final review by the Court of Disputed Returns.
Expressing her disappointment over missing out on a role within the party, Kapterian called for a “modern Liberal Party that speaks to the concerns of Australians.” She wished Boele success in her new role and thanked the voters of Bradfield for their trust.
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has confirmed receipt of Kapterian’s petition withdrawal, ensuring Boele remains the elected member after being sworn into parliament on July 23. AEC electoral commissioner Jeff Pope praised the commission’s efforts, highlighting their commitment to election integrity and the high standards expected by Australians during federal elections.
As political dynamics shift and new challenges arise, all eyes remain on Boele as she embarks on her journey in the Australian Parliament. This development not only reshapes the local political landscape but also echoes broader themes of democracy and electoral integrity in Australia.
