Elizabeth Court: Granddaughter of famous Sir Charles and former WA premier eyes off tilt at politics

One of the most famous names in WA and Australian politics could be making a comeback, with the granddaughter of the revered Sir Charles seriously considering following in her family’s footsteps. Informed sources say Elizabeth Court, an economist by trade who is more widely known as Libby, is weighing up nominating for Liberal Party candidacy in Nedlands before the February 28 deadline, in a move that would set up a showdown with City of Perth councillor Brent Fleeton and possibly Nedlands mayor Fiona Argyle. The niece of respected former WA Liberal premier Richard Court is said to be keen to help the Liberal Party return to its former glory, when it was a dominant and powerful part of WA politics. Nedlands was a one-time Liberal fortress, falling to Labor in the 2021 State election whitewash, which saw just two Liberals returned in the 59-seat Legislative Assembly — Libby Mettam in Vasse and David Honey in Cottesloe. The WA Liberal Party wants Nedlands returning blue at the 2025 poll, as well as hoping other former Liberal seats including Churchlands, Carine, South Perth and Bateman go back into conservative hands. The Court name is synonymous with Nedlands, Sir Charles being the member for that electorate for nearly 30 years as well as WA premier from 1974 to 1982. Sir Charles is renowned for his achievements in opening up the North West for resource development. His son Richard Court was premier from 1993 to 2001 and was also the member for Nedlands. The Sunday Times revealed last weekend Richard Court had thrown his support behind Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas’ efforts to be endorsed as the Liberal candidate for Churchlands. “Elizabeth has extensive experience in the corporate world and more recently assisting families with philanthropy and succession planning and, of course, has a proud family history in WA politics,” an informed Liberal source said. “She would be an excellent candidate for the seat of Nedlands and would love to be part of the rejuvenation of the Liberal Party.” Labor’s Dr Katrina Stratton holds Nedlands by just a 3.1 per cent margin. Sources say Dr Stratton has told Labor she wants to move to the upper house, taking Sally Talbot’s spot in the Legislative Council if, as expected, she retires.