Pesutto moved to backbench as Victorian Liberals reveal new shadow cabinet
Victorian Liberal Leader Brad Battin has announced the new shadow cabinet, with some surprise changes in key roles.
The reshuffle involved moving former leader John Pesutto to the backbench and assigning Matthew Guy to oversee the transition to government portfolio.
Battin has promoted his supporters, such as James Newbury as the shadow treasurer and Bridget Vallance as the Shadow Finance Minister.
Other notable appointments include Bev McArthur handling local government and scrutiny of government portfolios, and Joe McCracken becoming the shadow cabinet secretary.
Former deputy leader David Southwick has transitioned to the police and corrections portfolios, while Jess Wilson remains the shadow education minister.
Former Shadow Treasurer Brad Rowswell will now manage the environment, digital transformation, and public service innovation portfolios, and Michael O’Brien retains his role as the shadow attorney general.
The new cabinet increases the number of female ministers to eight from the previous seven, with Battin emphasizing a merit-based selection process and a focus on winning the 2026 state election.
Regarding Pesutto’s move to the backbench, Battin clarified that it was Pesutto’s own decision, highlighting his ongoing contribution to the team.
The reshuffle was not targeting Pesutto’s allies, and Southwick’s transfer to the police portfolio was justified based on his experience and the significance of addressing crime in Victoria.
Labour’s Reaction
Following the announcement, Victorian government minister Lily D’Ambrosio criticized the new shadow cabinet, labeling it the “Coalition cut squad” and accusing Battin of prioritizing cuts over gender diversity.
D’Ambrosio also alleged that Battin punished dissenting voices and pointed out divisions within the state Liberal Party.
She claimed that Battin’s actions did not address the party’s longstanding issues and were driven by personal allegiances rather than the party’s best interests.
