Independent MP Nicolette Boele has solidified her position as the member for Bradfield, Australia’s most marginal seat, following the concession of her Liberal opponent, Gisele Kapterian. Kapterian announced on Thursday that she would not pursue a legal challenge to the election results, four months after the federal election held in May.
Boele’s victory came by a mere 26 votes, marking a significant shift in a seat that was previously a Liberal stronghold. Kapterian stated that after a thorough review of the ballot papers, she is satisfied with the outcome. “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,” Kapterian said.
Election Context and Recount Details
The race for Bradfield was intensely competitive. Boele initially reduced the Liberal margin to four percent during the 2022 election against then Liberal Minister Paul Fletcher. Following Fletcher’s retirement from politics, Boele claimed her narrow victory in 2025. The seat was originally declared for the Liberals, but a recount ultimately favored Boele, prompting Kapterian to initiate a legal challenge.
Kapterian acknowledged the complexities involved in interpreting ballot papers, describing the process as often “difficult and subjective.” She expressed her gratitude to the electorate, stating, “I wish Ms Boele all the best in the role and I thank the people of Bradfield for this incredible opportunity.”
Boele’s Commitment and AEC Acknowledgment
In a statement following the concession, Boele expressed her commitment to serving the Bradfield community. “Serving this community is the privilege of my lifetime, and I do not take this responsibility lightly. I will continue to serve with integrity, care, and dedication,” she declared.
She also emphasized the importance of electoral integrity, stating, “While we watch checks and balances erode in other countries, our electoral and judicial processes are something we can genuinely celebrate here at home.”
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) confirmed that it had been officially notified of Kapterian’s decision to withdraw her petition for a final review by the Court of Disputed Returns. The Electoral Commissioner, Jeff Pope, praised the AEC staff for their efforts in maintaining high standards during the recounts, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
As Boele was officially sworn into parliament on July 23, 2025, she begins her term with the backing of a robust democratic process that has garnered attention for its reliability.
Kapterian had been tentatively named in Opposition Leader Sussan Ley‘s extended shadow ministry, should she have won the seat. Despite her disappointment in not contributing from within the party room, she reiterated her commitment to advocating for a “modern Liberal Party that speaks to the concerns of Australians.”
The conclusion of this electoral contest highlights the significance of each vote in shaping Australia’s political landscape, reinforcing the notion that every election can yield unexpected outcomes.
