Born in White Hills, a suburb of Bendigo, Victoria, Hampson received a primary education before becoming a eucalyptus and soap manufacturer.

[1] He remained in that position until 1915, when he transferred to the Australian House of Representatives, winning a by-election for the seat of Bendigo.

He remained in Parliament until 1917, when the Nationalist Prime Minister, Billy Hughes, contested the seat and defeated Hampson.

Returning to Australia in October 1919, he was appointed as an inspector for the Victorian Closer Settlement Board.

[3] Hampson's body was found in his car in Nandaly, Victoria, his death having apparently been caused by a heart attack.