Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has shut down suggestions Liberal Mayo by-election candidate Georgina Downer is unfamiliar with the local community after 20 years away from the electorate.
He joined Ms Downer in the Adelaide Hills on Saturday to commit $10 million towards the $25 million cost of rebuilding a dated swimming pool.
Ms Downer's extended period of absence has been the target of criticism since she announced her candidacy, but Mr Turnbull said she was well-known in the area.
"I haven't met anyone today that doesn't know her and, in fact, a large number of people like Anne (Senator Ruston) have known her since she was young," he told reporters in Mount Barker, south-east of Adelaide.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Liberal Candidate for Mayo, Ms. Georgina Downer with supporters. Source: AAP
"I don't think that's an issue."
Ms Downer was also joined on the campaign trail by her father, Alexander Downer, who held the seat from 1984 until 2008 and served as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Mr Downer defended his daughter against similar criticism and said it was "fantastic for the Adelaide Hills" for constituents to return after time away.
"It's just what we need - people to build their experience but come back and contribute too the community, it's ideal," he said.
Both Downers and Mr Turnbull had also attended a 'politics in the pub' session held at Willunga on Friday night.
The Mayo by-election, one of five scheduled for July 28, was triggered when sitting member Rebekha Sharkie became embroiled in the citizenship saga.
Mr Turnbull urged voters to opt for Ms Downer over Ms Sharkie because she would be a part of the government.
"At the end of the day, (Rebekha) most of the time votes for the Labor party," he said.
"Governments are able to deliver and this is what we're doing here."
