UPDATE: Just announced, Berwick MP Brad Battin is facing a leadership challenge less than a year into his role as opposition leader. Reports indicate that a spill motion could be brought before the party room as early as Tuesday.
According to The Age and Herald Sun, Battin’s leadership is under threat due to declining support from party members across various factions. A “cross-factional delegation” met with him on Monday to express their concerns about his waning influence within the party. This urgent situation calls into question Battin’s ability to unify the party as opinion polls show a drop in support since he ousted former leader John Pesutto in December 2022.
The potential challenger is shadow treasurer Jess Wilson, who could become the first woman to lead the Victorian Liberal Party if the challenge succeeds. This development highlights a significant shift within the party as Battin struggles to maintain his leadership amid growing pressure.
Currently, the major parties are nearly neck and neck in two-party preferred polls, although Battin still holds a slight edge over Premier Allan in terms of preferred leader. If Battin is replaced, he would be the fifth leader of the Victorian Liberal Party in just over four years, with three changes occurring in the last year alone.
The urgency surrounding this leadership challenge is palpable, as party members prepare to take decisive action this sitting week. As the political landscape shifts rapidly, all eyes will be on the Victorian Liberal Party to see if they can stabilize their leadership and regain public support.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
