Victorian Liberals Face Turmoil Ahead of November Vote

Published: 10 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

The Victorian Liberals face mounting challenges as the party struggles to present a united front under new leader Jess Wilson. Wilson, just 35, has vowed to reposition the Victorian Liberals at the centre of politics while reconnecting with voters lost over recent years. Optimism remains, but repeated self-inflicted wounds continue to raise doubts about whether the Victorian Liberals can claim victory in November’s crucial election. Wilson must manage resignations, preselection battles, and public scrutiny while demonstrating that the Victorian Liberals can act as a cohesive, modern alternative.

The latest setback emerged when Sam Groth, a rising star and former professional tennis player, announced he would leave politics due to internal infighting. While his departure removes a potential rival, it highlights divisions threatening the Victorian Liberals’ stability. Groth’s rapid ascent from first-term MP to deputy leader created resentment among colleagues who felt he had not earned his position. His exit underscores the challenge Wilson faces in projecting unity and professionalism to voters.

Groth’s resignation followed a defamation saga that drew the party into public controversy. Allegations concerning Groth and his wife, Brittany, were eventually settled, with the Herald Sun issuing a formal apology. However, the story revealed an unnamed Liberal MP had contributed to the scandal, illustrating how internal betrayal continues to undermine the Victorian Liberals’ public image. Wilson now faces the difficult task of managing the party’s internal tensions while retaining credibility with voters.

Meanwhile, multiple MPs confront preselection challenges that further threaten party cohesion. Moira Deeming and Ann-Marie Hermans face contests, while Renee Heath could also be targeted. While Heath is likely to retain her seat, Hermans and Deeming confront uncertain futures, with support and opposition within the party determining their political survival. The rank-and-file-driven preselection process limits Wilson’s influence, despite her efforts to endorse candidates seeking her backing, adding pressure to maintain party unity.

Deeming’s situation reflects broader factional tensions. She gained attention for successfully suing former leader John Pesutto for defamation, a legal battle with significant political consequences. Her determination, combined with ongoing internal manoeuvring, highlights the difficulty Wilson faces in managing a party defined by strong personalities and rivalries. Such internal struggles continue to challenge the party’s ability to focus on broader electoral strategy.

Complicating matters, a Supreme Court case in March will test the legality of a $1.5 million loan from the party executive to cover Deeming’s legal fees. Initiated by party members themselves, the case highlights continuing dissent and exposes the party to public criticism. Wilson must navigate these disputes carefully while maintaining the impression that the party is competent and united ahead of the election.

Financial concerns also weigh on voter perceptions. While the long-serving Labor government faces a projected debt of $192 billion by 2028–29, which should give the party leverage, internal conflicts risk undermining this advantage. Historically, no Victorian Labor government has won a fourth term, but the party’s own dysfunction may offset that opportunity. Wilson’s ability to stabilise the party and maintain public trust will be decisive for their electoral prospects.

Despite internal difficulties, Wilson’s leadership reflects a conscious effort to modernise the Victorian Liberals. Her strategy focuses on collaboration, inclusivity, and shifting to the political centre. Nevertheless, high-profile resignations, preselection disputes, and legal controversies illustrate how internal divisions can dominate media coverage, risking voter confidence. Analysts warn that if factional disputes persist, the Victorian Liberals may struggle to present a credible alternative to the Labor government.

Political observers note that unity—or the perception of it—could determine the party’s election outcome. Wilson must balance ambition with cohesion while appealing to centrist voters, mitigating the impact of ongoing internal scandals. The Victorian Liberals’ public image will be critical in the lead-up to November, with each dispute potentially overshadowing policy proposals and campaign messaging.

The coming months are crucial. Nominations close on 14 January, with voting in late March, marking a period of intense scrutiny for the Victorian Liberals. Any further controversies could reinforce perceptions of a divided party and weaken voter confidence. Wilson’s leadership is central to demonstrating that the Victorian Liberals can overcome internal conflict and focus on delivering a credible election campaign.

Ultimately, the Victorian Liberals’ ability to convert opportunity into success depends on both internal discipline and public perception. Wilson’s leadership offers hope for renewal, but ongoing factional tensions, legal challenges, and preselection battles pose a significant threat. Voters will closely watch whether the Victorian Liberals can present a united front or allow internal dysfunction to define their campaign.

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