Preselection Challenges Loom for Victorian Liberal MPs Moira Deeming and Ann-Marie Hermans

Victorian Liberal upper house MPs Moira Deeming and Ann-Marie Hermans are facing significant preselection challenges ahead of the state election scheduled for November 2026. Dinesh Gourisetty, a notable figure in Melbourne's Indian community, is set to nominate against Deeming in the western metropolitan region. Meanwhile, Hermans is also expected to contend with multiple candidates for her position in the south-east metropolitan region. Nominations for the Liberal upper house preselections will close on January 14, with voting occurring over two weekends in March.

The Guardian

Dinesh Gourisetty has previously contested against Deeming in the 2022 preselection and has garnered support from various branches in the western suburbs. His past challenges included a run for the Liberal candidacy in Tarneit in 2014 and a position in the number two spot in 2018. Gourisetty is listed as a donor to former opposition leader John Pesutto's legal fund, which has drawn scrutiny due to the party's financial dealings. In contrast, Deeming's supporters assert that she maintains strong grassroots backing and notable endorsements from influential Liberal figures.

The Guardian

Ann-Marie Hermans, who has expressed her commitment to the party and local community, has indicated awareness of potential challenges but has not been directly contacted by any candidates. She emphasized the importance of her role in representing the Liberal party and criticized any challengers as "unprincipled and gutless."

The Guardian

Hermans stated, “I have worked hard, taken the challenge to Labor, tilled new ground in red heartlands, and I would consider it a major failing of the party if I am to be penalised and challenged for being conscientious and committed.” Meanwhile, Deeming's supporters have expressed confidence in her ability to withstand the challenges, with one supporter noting, “So far she hasn’t lost,” referencing her successful defamation case against Pesutto.

The Guardian

Despite the support for Deeming, there are dissenting views regarding her candidacy. Gourisetty's supporters claim he has the backing of eight out of eleven branches in the region, a claim contested by Deeming's camp, which argues for her strong grassroots support. Additionally, Hermans' potential challengers, including Nathan Conroy and Phillip Pease, are seen as serious contenders, raising questions about her position within the party.

The Guardian

As the preselection process unfolds, the Liberal party will witness a reshaping of its candidate lineup. The outcomes of these challenges will be pivotal as the party prepares for the upcoming state election, with implications for its overall strategy and representation in the Victorian Parliament. The results of the preselection votes in March will determine the candidates who will represent the Liberal party in the November elections.

The Guardian