Voters deserve clarity on party deals and election preferences

October 10, 2026 — 5:00am

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The midweek caller from Malvern to ABC Melbourne’s morning show spoke for many when he put his question to Opposition Leader Jess Wilson.

“Jess, I have voted Labor in the state election three times,” the caller began. “This time I plan on voting Liberal, but I can’t do that if there is any possibility Liberals would do a formal coalition with One Nation.”

The question was direct and seemingly genuine – seeking crystal clarity at a time when Victorian voters are turning their minds to the upcoming election and the moment when their pencil hits a fresh ballot paper to number lower house electoral candidates in order of preference.

“My concern,” the caller continued when prompted, “is that once my vote is cast, that coalition can still be negotiated after.”

Wilson stuck to a script that she acknowledged was already well rehearsed.

“There is only one coalition in Victoria. That is the Liberals and the Nationals, and that is not changing.

“There are no deals. The only deal is between the Victorian Liberals and the Nationals, and we are running to form majority government.”

As noted by this masthead, the November 28 state election will likely be the first........

© The Age