Victoria's Liberal leader Wilson refuses three-way election debate with One
Liberal leader Jess Wilson is boycotting Nine Network's leaders' debate on 5 November unless it excludes Warren Pickering, One Nation's Victorian leader.
Jess Wilson leads the Liberal Party. Polls show she could be Victoria's next premier.
She is refusing to attend a televised debate on 5 November hosted by Nine Network. She will only attend if One Nation leader Warren Pickering is excluded.
Premier Ben Carroll and Pickering have both confirmed they will attend. Wilson says she will debate Carroll alone any time.
Her party argues that including Pickering gives a platform to a minor party. Former Liberal leader Jeff Kennett warned against confidence.
He noted his government lost a 1999 election despite strong polling. One Nation is expected to control the balance of power in the upper house.
It has made previously safe Labor seats competitive in Victoria's west and north.
- November 5
- Debate date
- Control balance of power in upper house
- One Nation's expected role
- Likely next premier
- Wilson's polling position
Why it mattersThe debate standoff highlights how One Nation is reshaping Victorian politics. It shows a front-running candidate avoiding public scrutiny before a major election.
AustraliaThe 5 November debate will shape how Victorians see their next government; One Nation's role in the election is critical for who ends up in power.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
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