Is Brad Battin’s leadership on the brink of collapse? The Victorian Liberal Party is once again in turmoil as whispers of a leadership challenge grow louder, threatening to upend the party’s already shaky electoral prospects. But here’s where it gets controversial: this isn’t just about replacing a leader—it’s about a potential historic shift that could see Jess Wilson, a 35-year-old first-term MP, become the first woman to lead the Victorian Liberals in their 71-year history. And this is the part most people miss: while some see this as a bold move to revitalize the party, others argue it’s a risky gamble that could backfire spectacularly.
On Tuesday, Opposition Leader Brad Battin is expected to face a leadership spill, marking the second such challenge in as many years. The move comes as state Liberal MPs scramble to reverse their party’s declining fortunes, with polling suggesting another electoral disaster looms in November 2024. Victoria’s Coalition has been in opposition since 2014, and the pressure to regain relevance is mounting.
Sources confirm that shadow treasurer Jess Wilson, a rising star within the party, has secured enough support to challenge Battin. Wilson, who previously served as an adviser to former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg and as a policy director at the Business Council of Australia, represents a fresh face and a potential shift in the party’s competitive dynamic against Premier Jacinta Allan. If successful, the contest for Victoria’s leadership would become a groundbreaking battle between two women—a first in the state’s history.
But not everyone is convinced. Critics warn that the cost of yet another leadership change could outweigh any electoral benefits. ‘Whether Brad is good enough or not is beside the point,’ one MP remarked. ‘Another spill will only damage our chances further.’ The Liberals have already changed leaders five times since Labor’s Daniel Andrews returned to power in 2014, raising questions about the party’s stability.
Battin’s position has been under scrutiny since a shadow cabinet reshuffle last month, which alienated key supporters and fueled speculation about his leadership. MPs have also criticized his narrow focus on crime, arguing it has left the party flat-footed on other critical issues. Last week, the government’s law-and-order announcements effectively neutralized the Liberals’ key point of difference, exposing the limitations of Battin’s strategy.
Adding to the urgency is the approaching end of the parliamentary year. With just two sitting weeks left before the summer break, MPs are keen to resolve the leadership question before entering an election year. A spill this week would ensure all MPs, including regional MP Bill Tilley—who has been absent for health reasons—are present to vote.
The question now is whether Wilson’s elevation can truly turn the tide for the Liberals, or if it will only deepen the party’s divisions. Is this the bold move the party needs, or a desperate gamble? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
