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Battin Promises to Take on ‘Major Challenge’ as the New Leader of the Liberal Party


Newly elected leader Brad Battin pledges to address issues such as cost-of-living, public safety, infrastructure, and party unity.

Describing his new role as both “very pleasing and humbling,” Brad Battin emphasized the importance of uniting the Victorian Liberal Party and serving all Victorians.

Following his victory over John Pesutto in a party room meeting on Dec. 27, Battin vowed to prioritize pressing concerns like cost-of-living pressures, public safety, and infrastructure development.

“I know it’s a big task ahead, but I’ll be working with my team to ensure that we can deliver for all Victorians,” Battin said.

Battin also expressed gratitude towards his predecessor John Pesutto for his contributions to the party.

“Obviously, he’s had four years as a shadow Attorney General. He was also a member of our party for near 30 years,” Battin said. “I’ll be chatting to him again soon to ensure that we can have a united party we’re building towards the future.”

The leadership change stemmed from a morning meeting that saw a vote to reinstate Moira Deeming, followed by a spill motion against Pesutto, who chose not to contest the leadership, clearing the path for Battin to assume leadership.

Battin Targets Cost-of-Living Crisis

Addressing the cost-of-living crisis in his speech, Battin criticized the Allan Labor Government’s taxation policies for increasing financial burdens on businesses and families. Drawing from his experience as a small business owner, he highlighted the connection between higher taxes and increased consumer costs.

“As a former business owner, I understand the pressures placed on small businesses when governments make decisions, particularly around taxes,” Battin said.

He also stressed the importance of affordable energy policies, especially for families in growth corridors, promising to ensure that “people don’t have to choose whether they turn the air conditioner on at home or put food on the table.”

Stronger Policing and Safer Communities

Utilizing his background as a police officer, Battin focused on law and order, advocating for proactive measures to tackle the rise in crime across the state.

“As a former police officer, I can speak firsthand about the crucial role of Victoria policing, crime prevention, and protecting our community,” he said. “Proactive patrols are the best way to reduce crime inherent in the state, and that means you need to fill the vacancies that are already there.”

With a significant increase in crime reported in Victoria, Battin highlighted the need to stand up for victims and adopt a tougher stance on crime compared to the Allan Government’s approach.

He also linked public safety to infrastructure development, pledging to invest in regional road networks that are vital for the economy and regional areas.

Building a Unified Team and Vision for 2026

In closing, Battin underscored the importance of unity within the Victorian Liberal Party and the necessity to present a clear alternative to the Allan Government ahead of the 2026 election.

“It is now our time to come out as a united team to show you that we are the team to go into government in 701 days’ time,” Battin said.

With just over 100 weeks until the election, Battin emphasized the importance of reducing taxes, addressing the housing crisis, and tackling cost-of-living pressures. He also outlined plans to form a new shadow cabinet to develop policies that benefit all Victorians.

Newly appointed Deputy Leader Sam Groth expressed optimism for the party’s future, stating, “With Brad Battin as opposition leader, we have every opportunity to deliver positive and proactive change of government here in Victoria in 2026.”

Carroll Criticises Liberal Infighting Amid Bushfires

Deputy Premier Ben Carroll criticized the Liberal Party’s internal conflict in contrast to the government’s focus on fighting bushfires and ensuring the safety of Victorians.

“At the moment, we’ve got volunteers on the front line fighting fires to keep Victorians safe. At the moment, we’ve also got the Liberal Party fighting amongst themselves for themselves,” Carroll said.

He added, “We‘ll let the Liberal Party fight amongst themselves. We’ll concentrate on fighting these bushfires and keeping Victorians safe.”



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