Carnell eyes Bega seat

One of Canberra's best known former parliamentarians could be about to enter politics on the NSW far south coast.

Kate Carnell, the former ACT chief minister, is being mentioned as a possible candidate for the Liberal seat of Bega next year.

The current member, Russell Smith, is standing down after 15 years and the party has called for nominations for his replacement.

Mrs Carnell is currently the executive director of the National Association of Forest Industries.

She was Liberal Party leader in the ACT Legislative Assembly for almost six years, before resigning in controversial circumstances two years ago.

Mrs Carnell says she loves politics and continues to be involved with the Liberal Party in the ACT and New South Wales.

"I've been talking to the Liberal Party in New South Wales about a number of seats but really at this stage I haven't made any commitment to go to New South Wales, although I have made a commitment to help [NSW Liberal leader] John Brogden in any way I can, in the lead-up to the election," she said.