Statement from the Leader of the Opposition, Brad Battin
Last night, I supported the Party's Administrative Committee decision to pay Mrs Deeming the $1.55 million owed to her by Mr Pesutto, to satisfy the Federal Court costs order following its decision that Mr Pesutto had defamed Mrs Deeming. Mr Pesutto will repay the Party on commercial loan terms.
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.
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.
