Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin has unveiled a revamped shadow cabinet, promoting Kew MP Jess Wilson to shadow treasurer as part of a strategic overhaul aimed at the upcoming state election. The reshuffle represents a significant shift in the opposition’s approach, with Battin emphasizing a “fresh start” to challenge Premier Jacinta Allan’s government.
Jess Wilson steps into the role previously held by James Newbury, a key ally of Battin during his successful bid for opposition leadership last December. The reshuffle also sees the elevation of three first-term MPs, chosen for their diverse skills and life experiences, to the shadow ministry.
New Faces in the Shadow Ministry
Among the new appointees is Warrandyte MP Nicole Werner, who assumes the portfolios of youth justice and children, including child protection. Werner, the first Asian woman elected to Victoria’s lower house, brings her experience from the charity sector to these roles. She will also continue to oversee the youth and future leaders portfolio.
“These are three areas I’m extremely passionate about … having come from youth work and multicultural communities,” Werner stated on Saturday.
Upper house MP Nick McGowan, representing the North-Eastern metro region, has been assigned the shadow portfolios of community services and victim support. Previously serving as chief of staff for former opposition leader Matthew Guy, McGowan expressed his intent to contest the lower house seat of Ringwood in the next state poll.
Richard Welch, also from the North-Eastern metro region, has been appointed to manage the shadow portfolios of jobs, industry and industrial relations, as well as manufacturing and innovation. Welch, a businessman, highlighted his understanding of the challenges faced by Victorian businesses.
“I had to go through all the same experiences that our Victorian businesses have to go through in terms of regulatory obstacles, capital obstacles, tax obstacles,” Welch remarked.
Strategic Aims and Policy Focus
Flanked by his new team in Melbourne, Battin articulated the opposition’s strategy to introduce a blend of skills and enthusiasm to hold the government accountable. He underscored the necessity of reducing taxes, waste, and crime to rejuvenate Victoria’s prospects.
Last month, Battin announced a $100 million law and order policy agenda, reflecting a commitment to tackling crime—a key issue for the opposition as the state gears up for the November 2026 election.
The reshuffle comes in the wake of retirement announcements from senior Liberal MPs, including Shadow Attorney-General Michael O’Brien and Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation David Hodgett, who plan to exit politics before the upcoming election.
Continuity and Change
Despite the changes, former shadow treasurer James Newbury remains within Battin’s shadow ministry, taking on roles as manager of opposition business and overseeing the portfolios of attorney-general, equality, and anti-corruption.
The reshuffle marks a pivotal moment for the Victorian opposition as it seeks to redefine its identity and bolster its electoral prospects. With fresh faces and a renewed focus on key policy areas, Battin’s team is positioning itself as a formidable challenger to the incumbent government.
As the political landscape in Victoria continues to evolve, the opposition’s new lineup will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike, as they prepare to navigate the complex terrain leading up to the 2026 state election.
