UPDATE: Newly appointed Liberal leader Jess Wilson confronts immediate challenges as she embarks on her leadership journey, following the abrupt ousting of Brad Battin less than a year into his term. The Kew MP’s first major task involves selecting her shadow cabinet, a decision fraught with tension amid concerns over factional influences.
Wilson, who took the reins of the Victorian Liberals, was quick to dismiss guarantees that her shadow cabinet would be purely merit-based, raising alarms among party insiders. In a press conference at state parliament on Thursday, she stated, “I’ll be having lots of conversations with my colleagues,” hinting at the delicate negotiations ahead.
Former Liberal Premier Jeff Kennett, who led Victoria from 1992 to 1999, emphasized the importance of discipline within the party, noting, “Her success will depend on the ability of the party to now show a discipline they’ve not shown in a decade.” He highlighted the lingering influence of factions that he believes have undermined previous leaders, posing a significant hurdle for Wilson as she assembles her team.
Kennett specifically called out Bev McArthur, a prominent faction leader, accusing her of derailing past leaderships. “She is not part of the future,” Kennett declared, urging Wilson to prioritize state interests over factional loyalties.
In stark contrast, McArthur defended her position, asserting, “I firmly believe that in 2026, she will become the first woman ever elected premier of this state.” This statement underscores the high expectations surrounding Wilson’s leadership and her potential impact on the party’s future.
As the November 2026 state election looms, the Victorian Liberals find themselves at a critical juncture. The coalition must gain at least 16 seats to reclaim majority government, a daunting task given their prolonged absence from power since 2014.
Opposition health spokeswoman Georgie Crozier expressed confidence in Wilson’s capabilities, stating, “Jess is doing a magnificent job, and she’ll continue to lead us into the next election.” However, with the spotlight on her shadow cabinet choices, the pressure is mounting for Wilson to navigate these turbulent waters successfully.
Premier Jacinta Allan weighed in on the situation, stating, “If former Liberal premiers can’t trust the Liberal party room, neither can Victorians.” This sentiment reflects a growing skepticism about the party’s ability to unify and present a credible alternative to voters.
As Jess Wilson prepares for crucial discussions regarding her shadow cabinet composition, all eyes are on the Victorian Liberals to see if they can overcome factional divides and position themselves as a formidable force in the upcoming election. The next few weeks will be pivotal as Wilson’s decisions will not only define her leadership but also shape the future of the party.
What happens next? Wilson’s choices in the shadow cabinet will be closely monitored, with party insiders emphasizing the need for inclusivity without succumbing to factional pressures. With the clock ticking down to the election, the stakes have never been higher for the Victorian Liberals.
