Victorian opposition leader Brad Battin has unveiled a significant reshuffle of his shadow cabinet, promoting his leadership rival to the key shadow treasury portfolio. This move comes as Battin aims to consolidate his position ahead of the upcoming state election in November 2026. The reshuffle follows the announcement of retirements from politics by senior Liberals David Hodgett and another unnamed member.
Battin’s changes have already raised concerns about internal tensions within the Liberal Party. The opposition has faced ongoing struggles, particularly against the Labor government led by Premier Jacinta Allan. Despite declining popularity in opinion polls and a sluggish state economy, which is projected to accumulate a debt nearing $194 billion in the next four years, the Labor Party continues to hold power.
In the new cabinet, Jess Wilson, a former executive with the Business Council of Australia and an adviser to former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg, will take over the shadow treasury portfolio from James Newbury. Newbury, who has been a prominent supporter of Battin since the leadership spill against John Pesutto last year, will transition to the role of shadow attorney-general while also managing business in the lower house and retaining his equality portfolio. He has also added anti-corruption to his responsibilities.
While first-term MPs Richard Welch, Nicole Werner, and Nick McGowan have been elevated to the frontbench, Battin has faced criticism for his decision to remove Roma Britnell, another supporter of Pesutto, from the shadow cabinet. Britnell expressed disappointment, stating that her demotion was not her choice, as reported in the Australian Financial Review.
Battin has emphasized his commitment to leading the party into the next election, asserting that he will remain in his role as leader. He stated, “We need less taxes, less waste and lower crime. It is so important that we get on top of these things for Victoria to get that fresh start.”
Despite his assertive stance, critics within the party are voicing concerns. One Liberal MP, speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of internal party dynamics, accused Battin of rewarding factional allies rather than appointing the strongest candidates to key positions. “It’s clear Battin doesn’t understand any other issue other than crime,” the MP stated, suggesting that his focus is narrowly defined.
As the reshuffle unfolds, all eyes will be on how these changes impact the Liberal Party’s strategy in the lead-up to the 2026 election and whether Battin can effectively unite his party amid ongoing internal struggles.
