Victorian Liberals Elect First Female Leader in Party Shake-up
The Victorian Liberal Party has undergone another significant leadership change, with Jess Wilson being elected as the new party leader after Brad Battin was removed from the position in a party room vote. This marks the third leadership change for the party within just twelve months, highlighting ongoing internal tensions.
Historic Appointment for Victorian Politics
Jess Wilson, a first-term MP, has made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Victorian Liberals. Her appointment follows an unsuccessful leadership challenge against Brad Battin in late December, when former leader John Pesutto was removed from the position. Wilson's elevation represents a significant milestone for gender representation in Australian conservative politics.
Sam Groth will continue serving as deputy leader alongside Wilson. Groth recently received an apology from News Corp over reporting that had suggested his relationship with his wife began when she was underage. Meanwhile, in New South Wales, Gurmesh Singh was named as the replacement for Dugald Saunders as Nationals leader.
Broader Political Context and International Developments
The leadership change comes amid several significant political developments both domestically and internationally. The UN Security Council voted to endorse Donald Trump's Gaza plan, passing a resolution that includes references to an independent Palestine state. The resolution was approved by a vote of 13-0, with China and Russia abstaining.
Algerian envoy to the UN Amar Bendjama emphasised that the resolution clearly affirms no annexation, no occupation, and no forced displacement. The inclusion of references to an independent Palestine was reportedly the price the United States paid for securing backing from the Arab and Islamic world for the plan.
In other notable news, two award-winning New Zealand authors had their books disqualified from consideration for the country's top literature prize after artificial intelligence was used in creating their cover designs. Stephanie Johnson's 'Obligate Carnivore' and Elizabeth Smither's 'Angel Train' were both ruled out of the 2026 Ockham book awards due to the AI involvement.
