Gisele Kapterian, a Sydney-born lawyer and former Liberal candidate, rose to prominence during the 2025 Bradfield election — one of Australia’s closest-ever federal contests. Known for her integrity, trade expertise, and focus on cost of living, housing, and digital governance, she conceded defeat by just 26 votes but remains a respected and forward-looking figure in Australian politics.
Why Gisele Kapterian Is in the Headlines
Gisele Kapterian became one of the most talked-about Liberal candidates of the 2025 federal election after contesting the Sydney seat of Bradfield. Once a strong Liberal stronghold, Bradfield turned into a political thriller, ending in one of the closest finishes in Australian electoral history. After recounts and legal reviews, Kapterian conceded defeat to independent candidate Nicolette Boele by just 26 votes — a margin that underscored how every single ballot can shape an outcome.
This blog explores Gisele Kapterian’s early life, education, career journey, campaign priorities, election experience, public statements, and the possibilities for her future in Australian politics.
Early Life & Education-The Making of Gisele Kapterian
Born at Royal North Shore Hospital and raised in North Willoughby on Sydney’s North Shore, Gisele Kapterian is the daughter of migrant parents. She attended local schools before earning a Bachelor of Arts/Law (Honours) degree from Macquarie University. Her academic excellence led her to the University of Cambridge, where she studied international law under a Commonwealth Trust Scholarship.
Her early professional journey included an internship at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and work as an international trade lawyer in both Geneva and London. There, she represented clients before WTO panels and honed her expertise in global trade and regulatory systems.
Her Armenian-Australian heritage also shaped her community values. Kapterian served on the board of the Armenian National Committee of Australia, reflecting her commitment to multicultural representation and advocacy.
Professional Career Before Politics
Before entering the political spotlight, Gisele Kapterian’s career spanned law, government, and technology — three fields that later defined her policy focus.
1. International Trade Law
She built a strong reputation as a trade lawyer, advising both governments and private organisations on WTO matters, export regulations, and international finance. Her insights into global commerce positioned her as an expert in international dispute resolution and trade diplomacy.
2. Government Advisory Roles
Kapterian spent five years working as a political adviser to several federal cabinet ministers. Her tenure included serving as Chief of Staff in the Industry, Innovation & Employment portfolio, where she helped design strategies for economic growth and digital transformation. Her government experience allowed her to blend policy and practical governance in addressing national challenges.
3. Technology & Public Sector Strategy
In the private sector, Gisele joined Salesforce as Director of Public Sector Strategy. She worked on digital-government initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on citizen experience, data transparency, and trust in digital systems. This role deepened her understanding of how innovation and technology can drive public efficiency and rebuild trust in institutions.
Her diverse career positioned her as a forward-thinking candidate with a unique mix of policy depth and real-world industry knowledge.
Gisele Kapterian & Bradfield-The Liberal Campaign
In early 2025, Gisele Kapterian was preselected as the Liberal Party’s candidate for Bradfield, a seat traditionally considered safe for the party. With growing independent momentum across urban electorates, her campaign centred on reconnecting the Liberal message with everyday Australians — especially families, professionals, and small business owners.
High-profile figures within the party expressed confidence in her candidacy. Supporters praised her intellect, calm temperament, and ability to communicate complex issues in relatable terms. She presented herself as a modern Liberal — pragmatic, community-oriented, and focused on results rather than rhetoric.
A Nail-Biting Election-The Bradfield Contest
Bradfield became one of the most closely watched seats on election night. Early results showed Kapterian narrowly ahead before late votes and postal ballots tipped the count in favour of independent Nicolette Boele. A recount briefly reversed the result, placing Kapterian ahead by eight votes, only for the final declaration to return Boele as the winner by a margin of 26.
The saga captured national attention. Both women handled the tension with grace, but the outcome emphasised the unpredictability of politics in Australia’s most educated electorates — where local engagement, climate policy, and integrity often outweigh traditional party loyalty.
Concession & Public Statement
After reviewing the ballot papers and legal process, Gisele Kapterian publicly conceded the seat. In her statement, she said:
“After a final review of the ballot papers following the two different results in Bradfield, I am satisfied that, overall, the correct outcome has been declared.”
She also added a memorable analogy:
“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.”
Her concession was praised across party lines as dignified and respectful — highlighting her integrity and belief in the democratic process.
Policy Priorities-What Gisele Kapterian Stood For
Throughout her campaign, Gisele Kapterian outlined clear priorities that reflected both her professional experience and her understanding of local community needs.
Cost of Living & Inflation
She advocated for practical measures to bring inflation under control and reduce cost-of-living pressures through lower government spending, improved productivity, and more efficient energy solutions.
Economic Growth & Productivity
Drawing from her trade and policy background, Kapterian focused on fostering small-business growth, reducing red tape, and strengthening Australia’s competitive edge in technology and innovation.
Housing Supply & Affordability
She supported policies aimed at unlocking more housing supply through planning reform and infrastructure investment, helping younger Australians achieve home ownership.
Health & Mental Health Access
Kapterian backed the restoration of 20 Medicare-subsidised mental-health sessions and the expansion of GP services to rebuild primary healthcare access, particularly for families and seniors.
Climate & Energy Policy
She encouraged an evidence-based approach that balanced environmental responsibility with economic sustainability, highlighting Australia’s role in clean-energy innovation.
Local Focus-Representing Bradfield’s Needs
Gisele Kapterian’s campaign message focused on being a genuine local voice for Bradfield. Having grown up in the area and raised her own family there, she spoke often about the importance of local infrastructure, small-business support, and community wellbeing.
Her grassroots approach included attending local forums, visiting small businesses, and engaging with parents and educators. She emphasised that good policy starts with listening — a principle that resonated with many residents who felt disconnected from national politics.
Key Quotes That Defined Her Campaign
Several memorable lines captured her tone and political style:
- “I am satisfied that, overall, the correct outcome has been declared.”
- “After asking the on-field decision to go to the video umpire, we can be satisfied the right call was made.”
- “I am the daughter of migrants who came to this country because of the promise of Australia. The Liberal Party’s future depends on a policy agenda that speaks to aspirational Australians.”
These statements reflected optimism, humility, and a belief in opportunity — traits that resonated strongly with both supporters and commentators.
Why Bradfield Matters Beyond One Seat
The Bradfield election revealed deeper trends reshaping Australian politics.
- Every Vote Counts
The 26-vote margin illustrated the value of civic participation. It reminded voters that democracy depends on engagement, not apathy. - Changing Urban Liberal Landscape
Bradfield’s close race showed how traditional Liberal strongholds are evolving, with voters now prioritising issues like climate action, women’s representation, and local authenticity. - Authenticity & Trust
Kapterian’s calm professionalism and willingness to concede gracefully earned public respect. Her message about “listening and serving” contrasted with the polarised tone often seen in modern campaigns.
The Road Ahead for Gisele Kapterian
Gisele Kapterian’s campaign marked her as one of the most capable and future-focused figures in the new generation of Liberals. Her deep experience in trade law, technology, and government has positioned her for further leadership roles — whether inside or outside Parliament.
Her calm concession and thoughtful reflections reinforced her reputation as a principled leader. As debates continue over economic growth, cost of living, and innovation, Kapterian’s name is likely to remain part of the national conversation.
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