New Victorian opposition leader declares family 'off limits' as he fends off Labor attacks

Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin has declared his family is off limits for political attacks as he settles into his new role.

Battin took over the role following an internal party struggle that saw former leader John Pesutto ousted to the backbench about two weeks ago.

He has since revealed his shadow cabinet and is eyeing the role of next state premier.

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Speaking exclusively to 9News, Battin said the decision to take over was difficult but necessary as he knows he can make a difference.

"I believe I'm the best person for the job so I've come in here with a lot of skill set that I think will take us forward," he said.

But since coming into what some regard as the "worst job in the world" Battin has been met with ferocious targeting and attacks from the state government.

He has been labelled an "L-plate leader", "extremist" and a "cuts guy".

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Battin said none of it is true.

"It's actually quite interesting, Labor are acting more like an Opposition and we're acting more like the alternative government," he said.

But while politics are being played, Battin warned Victorian Labor to keep his family out of it after the party was in hot water for making a post about Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's wife.

"My family are off limits. I've been very reluctant to put my daughters' names out there even. I just think that families are off limits," he said.

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