The Division was named after the Rt Hon Robert Lowe, 1st Viscount Sherbrooke. Lowe had been a Member of the New South Wales Legislative Council, and former Home Secretary of the United Kingdom. The Division was created in 11 May 1949, for the 1949 federal election. It was first held by Sir William McMahon, who held the seat for over 32 years, until 1982. He was Prime Minister 1971-72. 