In a major shakeup of the Victorian Liberal Party’s leadership, Mornington MP Chris Crewther has been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister for Housing and Rental Affordability, while Nepean MP Sam Groth has been elevated to Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition.
The reshuffle follows a leadership spill that saw Brad Battin MP replace John Pesutto MP as Opposition Leader amid fallout from the Moira Deeming defamation case and persistent party instability. Battin’s new-look team aims to present a stronger, more unified opposition with a focus on key economic and social reforms.
Sam Groth’s promotion is a rapid rise for the former tennis star turned politician. In addition to his deputy leadership roles, he now holds a wide-ranging portfolio as Shadow Special Minister of State, Shadow Minister for Tourism, Sport, Events and Hospitality, and Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation. His expanded responsibilities reflect the Liberal Party’s renewed emphasis on tourism and event-driven economic growth, both significant sectors for the Mornington Peninsula.
Chris Crewther, continuing as Opposition Whip in the Legislative Assembly, expressed his dedication to addressing the state’s housing crisis.
“Housing and homelessness are issues I’ve been passionate about for years,”
Crewther said.
“Victoria’s public housing waitlist exceeds 61,000, and rising land taxes and supply shortages are driving up rents. I’m honoured to step into this role to work towards practical, affordable solutions.”
The leadership changes have heightened the Mornington Peninsula‘s political influence, with both Crewther and Groth holding key positions. Their prominence comes as the region faces mounting housing affordability pressures and growing demand for sustainable tourism and recreation development.
Brad Battin’s revamped shadow team seeks to stabilise the party and sharpen its focus on cost-of-living pressures, housing reforms, and economic recovery. The new Liberal leadership will push for reduced barriers to housing supply, lower taxes, and increased investment in regional tourism and events infrastructure.
The reshuffle marks a significant reset for the Victorian Liberal Party as it aims to rebuild voter confidence ahead of the next state election.
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