
Former Victorian Premier set to quit politics
FORMER Victorian premier Ted Baillieu is calling it a day.
Mr Baillieu will leave the Melbourne seat of Hawthorn months before the state's election on November 29.
The announcement yesterday shocked the Coalition government and Premier Denis Napthine.
"On reflection, now is the right time to step aside and provide an opportunity, in time for the Party to select, a fresh face to join the Liberal team," Mr Baillieu said in a statement.
"I do so knowing the Coalition Government has an exceptional record of achievement and a powerful agenda to build a better Victoria."
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Dr Napthine replaced Mr Baillieu as premier last March.
"I am proud to say that Ted Baillieu is also a close friend, whose advice over the years, I have valued and appreciated," Dr Napthine said.
The move is not expected to trigger a by-election.
- APN NEWSDESK