James Paterson

Liberal Senator for Victoria

James Paterson is Australia’s youngest ever Liberal Senator. First elected aged 28, Senator Paterson has spent his professional career fighting for free markets, individual freedom and the preservation of Australia’s constitutional framework.

During his time in the Senate, he has spearheaded the campaign to restore free speech, fought for greater protection for religious freedom, led opposition to radical proposals for constitutional change and helped block the ratification of an extradition treaty with China.

Senator Paterson is currently chair of the Senate Finance and Public Administration Legislation Committee; co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Museums, Libraries and Galleries; co-patron of Liberal Friends of Israel; and deputy chair of the Modest Members Society – a group of Coalition MPs committed to championing free markets and economic freedom.

Prior to entering the Senate, James was Deputy Executive Director of free market think tank the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA). He previously worked for the Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI), and in the office of Senator Mitch Fifield.

James has been a member of the Liberal Party since he was 17 and is a former President of the Victorian Young Liberals. He is a member of the Richmond Football Club and lives in Melbourne with his wife Lydia, their son William and their Cavoodle Archie.