Macedon Ranges mayor Kate Kendall has been announced the Victorian Liberal candidate for the seat of Macedon at November’s state election.
Kendall resigned from her mayoral duties last week (effective from this Friday), and has indicated she will continue to serve as a councillor.
“Serving as mayor has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” she said.
“This decision has not been made lightly; however, I believe it’s the right time to explore this opportunity.”
She will contest the Macedon seat following the retirement of incumbent MP Mary-Anne Thomas.
Kendall was elected to council in 2024 and served as deputy mayor, before being appointed mayor in 2025.
She said she had heard from residents across the region and many of their concerns extended beyond local government.
“People are worried about the rising cost of living, high taxes, planning decisions, increasing regulation, protecting farmland and our rural character, government accountability, and how difficult it’s become to run a small business,” she told the Express.
“I think people are just really looking for change at this time, and I love listening, I love caring, and I want to roll my sleeves up and fix what we can fix.”
Kendall moved to the Macedon Ranges in 2018, and now lives on a small farm in Kyneton with her husband and three children.
She is a successful businesswoman and has founded three companies including a startup accelerator championing women founders. She also recently served as president at a local business and tourism association.
“The core of my work has been about listening, communicating, connecting and trying to improve how things work,” she said.
Kendall said she hoped to restore hope and optimism to people by listening, advocating and creating a safe and sustainable future, both economically and environmentally.
“My focus areas include improving our roads and transport connectivity, supporting local businesses, restoring the community’s voice in decision-making, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth, protecting the character of our region, lowering taxes, and rebuilding trust and integrity in government,” she said.
“I think the most important thing is bringing hope and optimism back to Victoria.”
Victorian opposition Liberal Leader Jess Wilson formally introduced Kendall during her visit to Woodend and Gisborne on Saturday as part of her ‘Fresh Start Tour’.
“Kate obviously has a deep experience in local council, understands the needs of this community, is local herself, an incredibly successful businesswoman, and brings so much to the team,” Wilson told the Express.