Key facts
- Ben Carroll was elected Victoria's 50th premier after a chaotic leadership contest.
- Carroll's election followed a period of intense internal party conflict and public scrutiny.
- He has signaled a new direction for the government, including a royal commission into the construction sector.
- Carroll emphasized fiscal restraint and a desire to mend relations with the business community.
- The future of the Suburban Rail Loop project remains uncertain under the new leadership.
Ben Carroll has been elected as Victoria's 50th premier following a tumultuous 48-hour period marked by heated confrontations and public scrutiny within the ruling Labor party. Carroll, who initially stated he would not challenge former Premier Jacinta Allan, stepped forward after a cross-factional delegation informed him Allan had lost the confidence of the caucus.
Allan initially resisted, formally nominating herself and indicating a willingness to fight for the leadership. However, facing decisive numbers against her, she resigned, stating it was the "right thing" for the party and Victorians. This paved the way for Carroll's expected unopposed election, but the situation escalated when Attorney General Sonya Kilkenny, a close Allan ally, unexpectedly nominated for the leadership. This move, which included Allan's signature on Kilkenny's nomination papers, contradicted Allan's earlier statements about avoiding a damaging contest. Simultaneously, Steve Dimopoulos challenged Carroll's preferred deputy, Gabrielle Williams.
Ultimately, Kilkenny withdrew her nomination, and Carroll was unanimously elected premier, with Williams securing the deputy leadership. MPs expressed a mix of relief and apprehension, recognizing the significant challenges ahead, particularly with an election looming.
Carroll has moved quickly to signal a new direction, announcing plans for a royal commission into the construction sector and an increase in the anti-corruption watchdog's powers, steps Allan had reportedly refused to take. He also emphasized fiscal responsibility, acknowledging concerns about government spending and the state's projected debt. Carroll indicated a desire to mend relationships with the business community and flagged potential policy shifts, though the future of the $34.5 billion Suburban Rail Loop project remains uncertain.