Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien says he’s best person for the job

Michael O’Brien has defended his leadership of the Victorian Liberals, saying he’s best placed to lead the party to the next election.

Opposition Leader Michael O'Brien. Picture: NCA NewsWire

Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien has hit back at reports of a potential leadership challenge saying he’s the best person for the job.

Mr O’Brien, who was elected Victorian Liberal leader after the party’s crushing 2018 election loss, has been plagued by talk of a potential leadership spill over dissatisfaction with his party’s performance.

He said on Wednesday he was determined to continue to lead the party to next year’s election.

“What drives me is doing better for this state. That’s what motivates me,” he said.

“I was elected unopposed by my party after the last election because they know that as a former treasurer, nobody is better placed to lead Victoria’s economic recovery,” he said.

Michael O'Brien at the Moonah Links golf course ahead of a LNP conference. Picture: Aaron Francis

“I am absolutely determined to do it, not for me, not for the Liberal Party, but for all Victorians.

“The Victorian Liberal Party wants to see Victoria do better, I want to see Victoria do better, and that’s what I’m determined to offer.

“Victorians need a better alternative.”

Liberal sources say the party is split about Mr O’Brien’s suitability to lead the party, but are unclear on a potential replacement.

Mr O’Brien said he was confident he could unite the party.

“I will lead from the front as I’ve always done,” he said.

“I’m nothing if not determined, nothing if not committed, and committed to making sure that this state is the best it can be.

“That’s what drives me every single day.”

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