UPDATE: Newly appointed Liberal leader Jess Wilson is under intense scrutiny as she navigates the turbulent waters of factional politics while assembling her debut shadow cabinet. Following the abrupt ousting of Brad Battin less than 11 months into his leadership, Wilson’s initial decisions will significantly impact the future of the Victorian Liberals.
This urgent development comes as Wilson prepares for a crucial test—selecting her team and allocating key portfolios. Jeff Kennett, former premier of Victoria, emphasized that her success hinges on the party’s ability to demonstrate unity, which has been elusive for nearly a decade. “Her success or otherwise will depend on the ability of the party to now show a discipline they’ve not shown in a decade,” Kennett stated to AAP.
With factions deeply entrenched, Wilson faces a daunting challenge. “It’s one hell of a challenge,” Kennett remarked, highlighting the internal strife that has plagued her predecessors. The pressure mounts as factions vie for influence, particularly the controversial Bev McArthur, who has been criticized for undermining previous leaders.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, McArthur asserted that both she and Wilson were elected “on merit, not quotas,” expressing confidence in Wilson’s potential to become the first woman elected as premier of Victoria by 2026. However, Wilson has refrained from confirming whether her cabinet will be merit-based or influenced by factional loyalties. “I’ll be having lots of conversations with my colleagues,” she told reporters at state parliament on Thursday, adding that these discussions would conclude “not too far into the future.”
Kennett urged Wilson to recognize the contributions of Battin, former leader Matthew Guy, and Georgie Crozier, the opposition health spokesperson, in her cabinet decisions. Crozier, a former nurse, voiced her determination to maintain her role, noting that Labor is “running scared” after Wilson’s elevation.
As the first female leader of the Victorian Liberals, Wilson is expected to resonate with younger voters, particularly mothers and millennials. However, Kennett warned that she faces a steep learning curve. “Jess is young to the parliament and has a lot to learn,” he cautioned. He described the demands of leading the opposition as an all-consuming role that requires a relentless commitment.
Current Premier Jacinta Allan responded to Kennett’s comments, asserting that they reflect a lack of trust in the Liberal Party. “If former Liberal premiers can’t trust the Liberal party room, neither can Victorians,” she stated, highlighting the party’s struggles since losing power in 2014.
The Victorian Liberals face a formidable challenge ahead of the November 2026 state election, needing a net gain of at least 16 seats to regain a majority. As Wilson prepares for this critical moment in her political career, all eyes are on her next moves, which could reshape the party’s future in Victoria.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
