Brad Battin toppled John Pesutto as leader – then voted to save him with bailout
A financial bailout for John Pesutto was backed by the man who toppled his leadership, with the Liberal party's decision prompting Moira Deeming to liken her treatment to institutional abuse.
In a statement on Friday morning, Opposition Leader Brad Battin said he had supported the party's administrative committee's decision to provide a $1.55 million loan to Pesutto to cover legal costs.
The vote was made after hours of debate on Thursday night and avoids the prospect of Pesutto going bankrupt, which would force him out of parliament and trigger a byelection in Hawthorn.
The MP sought the loan so that he could satisfy a costs order that came after he was found to have defamed Deeming late last year.
'This decision was not about personalities or past disputes – it was about protecting the interests of the people we serve and ensuring our party can continue its important work,' Battin said.
'The loan arrangement ensures the party avoids further financial and reputational damage, allows us to put this matter behind us, and refocuses our efforts where they belong – holding Australia's worst government to account and building a stronger, fairer future for Victoria.
'Throughout this process, I have acted in accordance with the rules, maintained my impartiality, and ensured the confidentiality, welfare and dignity of my colleagues.
'With this matter resolved, our focus is firmly on the future. United, disciplined and determined, we are focused on earning the trust of Victorians and winning government in 2026.'
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