Former Victorian premier Ted Baillieu to quit politics

FORMER Victorian premier Ted Baillieu has announced he will not recontest his seat at the November 29 election.

Pictured at Glenferrie Strain Station in Hawthorn is Member for Hawthorn Ted Baillieu MLA with a number of PSO Protective Service Officers for a media appearance.

FORMER Victorian premier Ted Baillieu will quit politics at the November 29 election.

Mr Baillieu announced today he will stand down, making way for a candidate to contest the election in the Liberal Party’s third safest seat in the Victorian parliament.

His decision to quit was not unexpected, having been the subject of internal speculation after he was forced out of the premiership in March 2013.

The party will have to decide whether to open up his Melbourne seat of Hawthorn to a preselection ballot or have it determined by the Liberal administrative committee.

Mr Baillieu has quit less than 120 days before the election, which means that a ballot is not automatic.

His factional opponents have long argued that Mr Baillieu would quit in this time frame to prevent being rolled internally.

Mr Baillieu said in a statement: “I have today advised the Premier that I will not be recontesting the seat of Hawthorn at the forthcoming election.

“It is a privilege to have served the Liberal Party at the highest levels including as state president through four elections and parliamentary leader through two.

“In turn it has been an honour to serve the electorate and the people of Victoria, as Member for Hawthorn, arts minister and premier.

“And of course I wish to thank my wife Robyn and our children Martha, Eleanor and Robert, whose love and support has been a joy.

“I have not sought a front bench position and do not harbour a desire to return to the ministry.’’

Comment is being sought from Health Minister David Davis to determine whether he will move from the upper house to contest the seat.