A Vision for Change and a Better Future for All Victorians
In a candid and revealing interview to 3XY Radio Hellas’ John Paganis, John Pesutto, the Leader of the Opposition in Victoria, spoke about the challenges facing the state, his personal journey, and the solutions he envisions to restore financial stability and prosperity to Victorians.
Pesutto, who has deep roots in Italian heritage, highlighted the tough economic situation that many Victorians find themselves in today, particularly the overwhelming tax burden on businesses and property owners. With Victoria now carrying the highest land taxes in the country, Pesutto expressed his frustration with the current government’s approach to fiscal management.
“Many hardworking Victorians—people who invested in property to secure their financial future—are now being forced to sell their homes and businesses because they simply can’t afford the mounting taxes,” he said, underscoring the injustice faced by ordinary Victorians. “It’s outrageous that the government continues to impose these heavy taxes while the cost of living is spiralling out of control.”
Pesutto believes that the key to addressing Victoria’s financial woes lies in stabilizing the state’s debt, which he claims has been exacerbated by the government’s poor management of major infrastructure projects. The opposition leader stressed that halting the financial bleeding from these projects, which often run billions of dollars over budget, is essential to bringing relief to struggling Victorians. “We need to stop the financial mismanagement and get taxes down, or we risk losing more businesses and driving more families out of their homes,” Pesutto warned.
The interview also delved into the rising energy costs, particularly the Labor government’s controversial ban on gas. According to Pesutto, this policy would drive up costs even further, potentially forcing Victorians to rely on expensive imported gas. “We have gas resources right here in Victoria that the Labor government refuses to tap into,” he explained. “As Premier, I would ensure we use our own resources to keep energy costs affordable for all Victorians.”
Pesutto’s vision extends beyond financial and energy policies; he also spoke passionately about Victoria’s growing population and the strain it places on infrastructure. With Victoria experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the housing sector, Pesutto argued that the state’s infrastructure has not kept pace. “The Labor government has run out of money to fund essential services like roads, hospitals, and schools,” he said. “We need a sustainable migration policy that ensures we can provide for the needs of new arrivals without compromising the quality of life for existing Victorians.”
On the subject of multiculturalism, Pesutto outlined his belief in strengthening intercultural ties across communities. He emphasized the importance of celebrating the contributions of various ethnic groups to Victoria’s cultural fabric. “Our multiculturalism is a success story, but it’s time for us to evolve,” he said. “Let’s build on this foundation and make our festivals and events even more inclusive, creating opportunities for different communities to come together and support each other.”
When asked why Victorians should vote for the Liberal Party, Pesutto drew on his own personal story, reflecting on his parents’ immigrant experience and the values that shaped him. “I come from a working-class background,” he said. “My parents worked hard to give me the opportunities I have today. The Liberal Party is about opportunity, equality, and securing a prosperous future for everyone, regardless of background.”
As the 2026 election approaches, Pesutto’s message is clear: Victoria needs change. From reducing taxes and cutting wasteful spending to making energy more affordable and supporting sustainable migration, Pesutto is committed to a future where all Victorians, whether they are workers or business owners, can thrive. And with his promise to regularly engage with the community, it’s clear that Pesutto intends to keep fighting for the future of the state he loves.
As Christmas approaches, Pesutto’s light-hearted moments about his family’s traditions, combining Italian and Greek holiday customs, added a personal touch to an interview that showcased both his leadership and his connection to the diverse communities of Victoria. “I do love my mother-in-law’s pitas,” he joked, “but I could happily eat Galaktoboureko for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”
RedBridge Group recently had a poll of state voting intention in Victoria that has the Coalition leading 51-49, unchanged on the last such poll in late September and October. It seems that more and more Victorians now believe that with Pesutto at the helm, they have a leader who understands the struggles they face and has a clear vision for how to build a more prosperous, sustainable, and unified state.
