Previous deputy Liberal leader Sam Groth is set to step down from parliament next week, triggering a by-election for the Nepean electorate.
The first-term MP had promised to leave state politics at the November election, a choice he claimed he took following the realization that the recent public pressure on his family had originated from within his own party.
His upcoming resignation will require voters in the Mornington Peninsula electorate to go to the polls twice within a year — first for a by-election in the early part of this year and then again in November for the state election.
Following the announcement of his resignation, the first-term MP issued a statement indicating his plans to explore different avenues.
"It has been a privilege to work for the residents of Nepean, and I genuinely appreciate their confidence in me for the chance to stand up for our community," Mr Groth stated.
I deeply appreciate my team for their expertise, commitment, and relentless efforts in assisting the residents of Nepean.
He mentioned he hopes Opposition Leader Jess Wilson and the Liberal group have maximum success in the election.
"Primarily, I express my gratitude to my family, my wife Britt, and our twin sons, for their constant love and support," the statement mentioned.
Politics is a challenging sport
During a press event on Wednesday afternoon, Ms Wilson expressed her gratitude to Mr Groth and stated her support for his choice to depart without completing his term.
"Sam has clearly stated that this choice was made in consultation with his family," she remarked.
He spent the time during the Christmas holiday. Upon his return, we sat down and discussed it.
He and Britt, along with the others, have made a choice to pursue a new path. I comprehend this and will honor their decision.
Ms. Wilson stated that she never attempted to alter his opinion at any point since he revealed his plans several weeks ago.
"Politics is a very challenging field. It's a demanding atmosphere and at times can have a significant impact on people's families," she stated.
She mentioned she was eager for the upcoming by-election, yet declined to comment on its expenses.
"It's a chance to hear from the residents of Nepean, gain their confidence, and present our key focuses," she stated.
She refused to confirm if her party had a candidate selected.
The 2024-25 annual report from the Victorian Electoral Commission noted that the two most recent state by-elections, held in Werribee and Prahran, each cost approximately $2,109,500.
It's very improbable that the Labor party will challenge the by-election.
During the five by-elections conducted throughout this parliamentary term, the party has only contested the seats it currently controls: Mulgrave and Werribee.
A setback for the Liberal party would be a catastrophe as it aims to gain strength before the general election in late November.
Deputy Premier Ben Carroll stated that Mr Groth's departure was a criticism of Ms Wilson and the Liberal Party.
"It's game, set, and match for the Victorian Liberal Party," Mr Carroll stated.
Sam Groth — the team's top new player — couldn't complete an entire match.
Jess Wilson has been in charge for under 50 days, and her previous deputy has announced their resignation.
Mr. Carroll mentioned that Labor's state headquarters and local branch would convene to decide whether to field a candidate in Nepean.
The departure comes after a legal dispute and internal conflict
Mr. Groth was chosen in 2022 following a career in professional tennis where he played for Australia in the Olympics and global competitions.
He climbed the ranks to become deputy leader of the Victorian Liberal Party, but resigned after indicating his plan to leave politics.
He has been involved in the shadow roles related to tourism, sports, and major events, as well as trade and investment.
Mr. Groth made headlines in the media at the start of 2025, as the Herald Sun published a set of articles detailing the early stages of his relationship with his wife.
Mr Groth then took legal action against the Herald Sun newspaper for defamation..
The ABC is aware that the parties resolved the matter outside of court, with theThe Herald Sun issued an apology to the couple in November..
Upon declaring his choice not to run in the November election, Mr Groth stated he had "consistently approached this role with integrity, dedication, and a strong commitment to the individuals who entrusted him."
"But when you're forced to battle against your own team, it's impossible to prioritize those interests," he stated.
His premature departure results in him exiting politics without completing a full term in parliament.
Comments
Post a Comment