Viral Video of Victorian Liberals Marks Cancelled Commonwealth Games
A social media video created by the Victorian Liberal Party has captured widespread attention, featuring current leader Jess Wilson and three former leaders in a humorous tribute to the cancelled regional Commonwealth Games. The clip, set to the 1989 track "Pump Up the Jam," showcases MPs participating in mock events like the "running out of money relay" and "highest taxes and debt high jump."
Unprecedented Party Participation and Production
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the video is the broad participation across the party. It includes former leaders Matthew Guy, John Pesutto, and Brad Battin, alongside newer MPs like Rachel Westaway and more conservative members such as Bev McArthur and Renee Heath. MPs were asked via group chat last Friday to bring activewear, with props sourced from Kmart, and regional MPs filmed their scenes in Melbourne on Monday.
Wilson's small social media team wrote, filmed, and edited the video, replicating a formula from recent popular Instagram reels. The team aimed to mark what would have been the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games on Tuesday, while acknowledging voter fatigue over the issue. The Games were cancelled in 2023 at a cost of nearly $600 million to the state.
Mixed Reactions from Political Observers
Communications professional David Imber praised the video on ABC Radio Melbourne, calling it a "good outing" that could engage disengaged voters. He noted the strong opening and closing frames, though he felt the middle section became "like a school project." Imber also commended Wilson for "putting her body on the line" by appearing in swimwear, a tradition in Australian politics.
However, Labor sources offered a more critical perspective. Premier Jacinta Allan dismissed it as "petty politics," while senior Labor figures argued it lacks policy or vision for the future. They noted that Allan would likely face harsh criticism for similar content, given the negative comments on her social media posts.
Strategic Implications for the Upcoming Election
The video has sparked conversations at Spring Street, with Imber suggesting it demonstrates party unity and hunger to win November's state election. After over 12 years in opposition marked by internal divisions, the Liberals appear to be presenting a more cohesive front. The inclusion of diverse party members, from McArthur to Battin, signals internal solidarity that could be crucial in fending off threats from parties like One Nation.
Despite risks of appearing frivolous amid economic and global challenges, the video's viral success highlights the growing importance of social media in political campaigning. It remains to be seen whether this humorous approach will translate into electoral gains, but it has undoubtedly put the Victorian Liberals in the public eye.
