A Monash University expert is available to discuss the decision of Liberal MP Ryan Smith to quit politics, triggering a by-election for the outer eastern electorate.
Wednesday, 31 May 2023
Dr Zareh Ghazarian, Senior Lecturer, Politics & International Relations
Contact: 0402 851 224 or Zareh.Ghazarian@monash.edu
The following can be attributed to Dr Ghazarian:
“The decision made by Ryan Smith to resign as the MP for Warrandyte will trigger a by-election.
“Generally, we would expect this seat to be an easy one to retain for the Liberal Party. At the last election, Mr Smith was re-elected with a 4.2% margin.
“What we have seen, however, is that the Liberal Party has been struggling to attract electoral support in Victoria. The loss of the federal seat of Aston at a by-election earlier this year would be making the Liberal Party very nervous.
“The contest for Warrandyte will provide some insights into the minds of Victorian voters. Some may be considering how to respond to the Andrews Government’s tough budget, while others will also be mindful of the recent public disputes that have been occurring in the Liberal Party.
“If the Liberal Party retains the seat, it will have an opportunity to rebuild and be on a stronger footing in Victorian politics. If it loses, then the Opposition Leader will be in strife and the divisions within the party will continue to fester.”
For any other topics on which you may be seeking expert comment, please contact the Monash University Media team on +61 3 9903 4840 or media@monash.edu
