Retiring Member of Parliament Sam Groth has announced his decision to step down from his position as deputy leader of the Victorian Liberal Party. This transition will occur at the next party room meeting, with his portfolios being immediately reassigned to other shadow ministers. The announcement was communicated to Liberal MPs by Opposition Leader Jess Wilson on Tuesday, following Groth’s unexpected declaration on Monday that he would retire from politics at the upcoming November election.
In her message to colleagues, Wilson stated, “Sam has advised me that he believes it is in the best interests of the party, as well for his family, for him to vacate the deputy leadership at the first party room meeting of the year.” She added that further details regarding the timing of this meeting would be provided in due course.
Party Dynamics and Leadership Changes
Groth, who was elected to the seat of Nepean just over three years ago, will see his departure coincide with the first parliamentary sitting week of the year, scheduled for February 3. However, special party room meetings can be convened if necessary. The Liberal Party is also set to hold a party room conference at the end of the month, where a leadership ballot could potentially take place.
Among the possible candidates to succeed Groth is Planning Spokesman David Southwick, who previously ran for the deputy role against Groth when Wilson was promoted to leader. Shadow Attorney-General James Newbury is also being encouraged to consider standing for the position.
Portfolio Reallocations and Cabinet Adjustments
Wilson has indicated that Groth’s portfolios will be reallocated immediately. Former opposition leader Brad Battin will assume responsibility for sport, Southwick will oversee tourism and major events, and Bridget Vallence will take charge of trade and investment. This reshuffling will align the size of the shadow cabinet with Premier Jacinta Allan’s cabinet, following the resignation of Labor MP Natalie Hutchins.
Under parliamentary rules, the number of shadow ministers eligible for additional salary and expense allowances is capped at the number of cabinet ministers. Groth’s return to the backbench means the opposition will not need to divide these resources further.
Groth’s Departure and Political Context
The former tennis star turned politician surprised his colleagues with his retirement announcement, coinciding with veteran MP Wendy Lovell’s similar announcement. In a public statement, Groth explained his decision, citing family discussions and expressing frustration with internal party conflicts.
“I have always tried to approach this job with honesty, hard work and a clear focus on the people who put their trust in me,” Groth stated on Monday. “When you find yourself having to fight against your own team, it becomes impossible to put those interests first. That is not the standard I came into public life to accept, and it is not the kind of politics Victorians deserve.”
Groth and his wife, Brittany, were embroiled in a legal battle with the Herald Sun newspaper last year over a series of articles that made unfounded claims about their relationship. The case was settled in November, with the Groths receiving an apology and an undisclosed payout. Additionally, Groth faced scrutiny for using then-deputy upper house leader Georgie Crozier’s chauffeur-driven car, which he defended as being within the rules.
Wilson’s Response and Future Implications
Speaking before her message to MPs, Wilson shared that she had a phone conversation with Groth on Monday night. “Sam’s a colleague, he’s a friend, and he’s a member of my team. I wanted to check in on him and his welfare, and Britt. It was a really tough day on them as a family and I wanted to check in and we had a good chat last night,” she said, declining to divulge further details of their private discussion.
The departure of Groth marks a significant shift within the Victorian Liberal Party, as it navigates internal dynamics and prepares for upcoming elections. The party’s ability to manage these transitions smoothly will be crucial in maintaining its cohesion and public image in the months ahead.
