Council
26 November, 2025
McArthur elected for new position
MEMBER for Western Victoria Bev McArthur has been elected the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council last week.
The announcement follows the Liberal Party’s change of leadership to Jess Wilson last Tuesday.
Mrs McArthur said she was “humbled” to be elected as the Leader of the Opposition.
“It is a responsibility I accept with unwavering determination, and not for a moment do I underestimate the seriousness of the role,” she said.
“Every day, Victorians from across the state tell me the same thing – we must defeat this Labor Government for the good of Victoria.
“To do that, we must put forward the strongest team possible.
“A team with the breadth of vision and talent to win the next election, and then to govern.”
Mrs McArthur said she will be working alongside Ms Wilson as part of the party.
“I have known Jess since she was a young girl visiting our family farm with her parents, Ron a former Member of this Parliament and Jo,” she said.
“I have also served with Jess, her husband Aaron, and her parents on the governing body of our party.
“The Wilsons are lifelong Liberals who understand exactly what we are fighting for.
“Jess brings intellect, determination, political smarts, and a deep commitment to Liberal values.
“I am particularly proud to now serve in the leadership group with the first woman ever to lead the Parliamentary Liberal Party – and I firmly believe that in 2026 she will become the first woman ever elected Premier of this state.”
Mrs McArthur said both Ms Wilson and herself were chosen on their merit, not quotas.
“Our party must always stand for capability, character, and conviction,” she said.
“As leader in the Upper House, I will continue to fight every day to hold Labor accountable and ensure our Liberal values remain at the heart of everything we do.
“Economic freedom, individual responsibility and smaller government are not negotiable.
“They are essential to Victoria’s future, and I will not shy away from defending them.
“Together with Sam Groth as deputy leader of our party and Evan Mulholland as deputy leader in the Legislative Council, we will work tirelessly to deliver a Coalition Government in 2026 – with Jess Wilson as Premier.”
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