Liberals focus on 'lessons' for Victorian election after decisive Nepean win
The Victorian Liberals retained the safe seat of Nepean in a by-election, with former local mayor Anthony Marsh securing a decisive victory. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson emphasized the need to learn from the result ahead of the November state election, despite the win. Analysts noted a 10 per cent drop in the Liberal primary vote, suggesting voter caution despite the party holding the seat.
- ▪The Victorian Liberals retained the Nepean seat in a by-election, with Anthony Marsh declared the winner.
- ▪Labor did not contest the by-election, though One Nation and an independent candidate posed a significant challenge.
- ▪The Liberal Party's primary vote fell by approximately 10 per cent compared to the last election.
- ▪Political analyst Zareh Ghazarian said the result sends a mixed message, offering relief but also warning signs for the Liberals.
- ▪Jess Wilson stated the party still needs to win 16 seats to form government in November.
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Liberals focus on 'lessons' for Victorian election after decisive Nepean by-election winBy Sian JohnsonTopic:By-Elections1h ago1 hours agoSat 2 May 2026 at 11:05pmAnthony Marsh and Jess Wilson after the Liberal Party's victory in the Nepean by-election. (ABC News: Patrick Rocca)In short:The Victorian Liberals have retained the traditionally safe seat of Nepean in a by-election, with the success of former local mayor Anthony Marsh.Opposition Leader Jess Wilson says retaining the seat does not diminish the challenge the party faces ahead of the November state election.Political analysts say the result holds a mixed message for the party, but may bolster Ms Wilson's leadership.abc.net.au/news/nepean-byelection-win-victorian-liberals-state-election/106635630Link copiedShareShare articleAs the…
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