What if I told you that the Electoral district of Kew has shaped Victoria’s political landscape for nearly a century? The Electoral district of Kew is more than just lines on a map. It is a vibrant community with a rich history.
Welcome to the Electoral district of Kew. We will explore its boundaries, its people, and its political legacy. The Electoral district of Kew was created in 1927. It is located in eastern Melbourne, a few kilometres from the city centre. The district includes the suburbs of Kew and Kew East. It also encompasses Balwyn, Balwyn North, Deepdene, and parts of Canterbury, Mont Albert, and Surrey Hills.
The current member for Kew is Jess Wilson. She represents the Liberal Party. The boundaries of Kew are determined by the Electoral Boundaries Commission. These boundaries are reviewed regularly. As of the 2022 election, Kew follows the Yarra River on the north and west. On the east, it follows Winfield Rd, Evelina St, Kerry Pde, Barloa Rd, and York St. The southern boundary follows Mont Albert Rd and Barkers Rd. It extends into Canterbury Rd between Balwyn Rd and Burke Rd. In 2022, Kew gained 6,514 voters from the Box Hill district. Kew sits almost entirely within the federal seat of Kooyong.
Let’s delve into the demographics of Kew. The district has a population of over 64,000 residents. These residents live in over 26,000 private dwellings. Kew is an educated community. Fifty percent of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. This is 20 points above the state average. Many residents are not religious. Forty-three percent identify as non-religious. Twenty-one percent identify as Catholic. Seven percent identify as Anglican. Six percent identify as Eastern Orthodox. Kew boasts a strong economy. Ninety-six percent of the labor force is employed. The median weekly personal income is $991. This is $188 higher than the state median. The median weekly household income is $3,010. This is $874 higher than the state median.
Kew is a multicultural community. Sixty percent of residents were born in Australia. Eleven percent were born in China. Twenty-four percent have Chinese ancestry. Twenty-four percent have English ancestry. Twenty percent have Australian ancestry. Sixty-two percent have at least one parent born overseas.
The Electoral district of Kew has a storied past. It has been a safe seat for the Liberal Party and its predecessors. One notable member was Dick Hamer. He served as Premier of Victoria from 1972 to 1981. From 1927 to 1981, Kew was represented by only three members. All three became Deputy Premiers: Wilfrid Kent Hughes, Arthur Rylah, and Hamer.
The name “Kew” has an interesting origin. In 1851, Nicholas Fenwick purchased 122 acres. He named the allotment Kew. He said, “Kew in England is near Richmond, this place is near Richmond, why not call it Kew?”
The Electoral district of Kew continues to evolve. It remains a key part of Victoria’s political and social fabric. As we conclude our tour, remember the people, the history, and the significance of the Electoral district of Kew. It is a place where community and politics intertwine.