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After a brief party room meeting today, Battin acknowledged his defeat and announced to the media that the vote “didn’t go my way.”
“The Victorian Liberal Party must ensure we are on the right track to gain power in the next election. Genuine change is needed, and we can’t just sit back and expect it to happen,” Battin emphasized.
“Politics is not solely about being within the walls of parliament. It’s fundamentally about the people we are meant to represent,” he added.
Reflecting on his tenure, Battin shared, “Serving in this role has been an absolute privilege.”
During the meeting, which commenced at 8:30 a.m., Wilson was elected as the new leader.
Her successful leadership challenge makes the former shadow treasurer the first woman to lead the state’s Liberal party.
She has been an MP for just three years and was first elected in 2022.
It also makes Wilson Victoria’s third Liberal leader in under a year.
If Wilson remains opposition under until November next year, it will be the first time two women are contesting a Victorian state election as leaders.
When speaking to the media, Wilson said one of her priorities is to help every Victorian in the state own a home.
“Victorians have a clear choice,” Wilson said.
“A choice between a tired, out-of-touch Labor government or a new generation Liberal team.”
Wilson also confirmed outgoing opposition leader Battin would have a role in the shadow ministry going forward.