Long-serving Victorian MP and former Liberal leader Michael O'Brien to quit politics

Former Victoria Liberal leader Michael O'Brien has announced his plans to quit politics and "pass the baton" after 20 years in parliament.

The member for Malvern, who is one of the Coalition's longest-serving MPs, said he will not contest the 2026 state election.

"When I gave my maiden speech back in 2006, my daughter was a toddler and my son was a baby in his mum's arms," O'Brien said in a statement on Instagram.

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"Today, they are university students making their way in the world.

"It is a measure of how much time has passed and why it is now the right time for me to pass the baton."

O'Brien said he will retire from state politics with a "deep gratitude" for the people in his electorate.

"Serving them as the member for Malvern has been one of the greatest honours of my professional life," he continued.

"Not a day of their trust has been taken for granted and I hope they know that I have always worked diligently for them and will continue to do so."

O'Brien finished his statement by saying he believed Victoria "desperately needs a new direction, fresh leadership and a responsible government".

He was elected member for Malvern in 2006 and represented the electorate for five successive elections.

O'Brien also led the state opposition following its 2018 election loss through to September 2021, which included much of Victoria's tough COVID-19 lockdowns.

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Opposition Leader Brad Battin thanked O'Brien for his two decades of service in state politics.

"He never compromised his integrity and was always a pleasure to work with," Battin said.

Liberal member for Croydon David Hodgett last month also announced he would not contest the 2026 election.

Pre-selection for Liberal Party lower house seats will open next Monday.

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