The Victorian Liberal Party finds itself embroiled in turmoil as internal dissent mounts against leader John Pesutto, leaking confidence and support within the party ranks.
Pesutto’s leadership is under serious threat after shadow cabinet ministers called for a special meeting to address the increasingly contentious situation surrounding the expulsion of former MP Moira Deeming. The meeting, slated for this Friday, is expected to serve as the venue for Brad Battin—a former police officer and the opposition’s police spokesman—to challenge Pesutto’s authority.
With growing scrutiny as the state approaches the next election, the whisperings of discontent became louder following Pesutto's pivotal role in voting against Deeming’s re-admittance to the party. The situation escalated when the Federal Court ruled he defamed Deeming during her expulsion process, which included harsh accusations implied at her association with Nazism after her attendance at a protest back in March 2023.
Reflecting the increasing pressure on his leadership, Pesutto attempted to assert control by initially labeling the situation as “resolved.” He proposed another vote on Deeming’s potential return to the party later next month, but this seemed to fall on deaf ears. Politicians within his own ranks were quick to express their dissatisfaction, leading prominent members like Sam Groth, Richard Riordan, James Newbury, and Bridget Vallence to request the special meeting happen sooner—resulting in Friday's urgent gathering.
One insider, aligned with Pesutto, suggested the leadership outcome could be decisive before the year ends: “If it doesn’t happen over Christmas/New Year, John’s safe. If it happens over Christmas/New Year, John’s cooked. I think he’s cooked.” The sentiment reflects deep divisions and anticipatory excitement over what might happen.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Less than two years remain before the pivotal 2026 state election where the Victorian Labor government, under pressure from the electorate but seeking to claim its fourth term, will eagerly capitalize on any fracture within the Liberal ranks.
For Battin, who narrowly lost to Pesutto for the leadership role after the 2022 election, this moment could prove to be his opportunity for redemption. Having previously challenged then-leader Michael O’Brien, he finds himself once again at the forefront of the party’s internal politics. His public discourse around tackling leadership may bolster his standing among constituents who perceive him as more relatable than Pesutto.
Faced with fierce backlash after the defamation ruling, Pesutto offered another apology on Sunday, stating, “I again apologize to Mrs. Deeming as we all work together to try and push the Liberal Party toward winning government.” The repetition of apologies, though sympathetic, may come off as insufficient among members disgruntled with his leadership style.
Peering through the current discord, it becomes abundantly clear: the repercussions of these internal struggles represent more than just squabbles over leadership; they indicate deep-seated rifts within the party as well. While Pesutto seeks stability, many within the party remain skeptical about these efforts, with one MP estimating, “But have we seen the end of disunity? I don’t believe we have.”
Contemplations on party unity continue to dominate discussions, drawing parallels with past crises faced by political factions. History indicates internal fragmentation can quickly spiral, prompting key congregation points to emerge. The coming meeting could very well mark the tipping point of Pesutto’s leadership, setting the course for how the Liberal Party endeavors to present itself before the public and potential supporters as the narrative deepens.
The meeting scheduled for Friday will see shadow ministers convene, with expectations of impassioned discourse. Bradley Battin’s candidacy will likely dominate proceedings as he aims to rally fellow members and signal his readiness to lead the party away from its current chaos.
Simultaneously, Pesutto’s leadership will rest under the spotlight; whether he can motivate his colleagues to support him, or if they will pivot toward Battin, remains unclear. The outcome will prove consequential, not just to his personal ambitions but for the broader vision of the Victorian Liberal Party as they gear up to face the state’s electorate.
Regardless of the proceedings, one sentiment echoes throughout the party halls: change is on the horizon, and how it manifests could redefine the Liberal Party's roadmap as the next election draws nearer. With tales of loyalty and rebellion dancing among party members, the resolution this Friday holds promise—a promise tinged with the unmistakable urgency of political survival.
