Oliver Yates, challenging Liberal Josh Frydenberg in Kooyong, in hot water over election signs

An independent candidate challenging a high-profile Liberal in an inner suburban Melbourne seat could be in hot water with the local council over election signage.

Oliver Yates, Twitter picture.

The renewable energy advocate challenging Josh Frydenberg for the plum Victorian seat of Kooyong could face court action after illegally displaying campaign signs.

News Corp can reveal Oliver Yates, a former member of the Liberal Party, has been issued with a formal warning from Boroondara council after failing to apply for permits to display campaign material.

It is understood Mr Yates was given 24 hours to remove his signs before further action would be taken.

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The council’s chief executive Phillip Storer confirmed that Mr Yates had received warnings from council about the breach before being issued with a letter of Friday.

Josh Frydenberg. Picture: AAP Image/Daniel Pockett

According to the council, anyone in breach of the rules could face a hefty fine or even prosecution.

“He (Yates) does need permits and he does not have them,” Mr Storer said.

“Council has two options, it can issue a fine or it can prosecute.”

Mr Storer said prosecution “remains an option” if Mr Yates continue to flout the council’s laws.

Liberal senator Jane Hume, who lives in the area, tweeted that: “Kooyong deserves better”.

“If this is how contemptuous @_Oliver_Yates is of the most basic of community expectations, what on earth would he be like in parliament?” Senator Hume said.

Mr Yates was approached for comment.

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Originally published as Oliver Yates, challenging Liberal Josh Frydenberg in Kooyong, in hot water over election signs