Liberal MP Sam Groth has resigned from John Pesutto's frontbench after the Victorian leader's defamation lawsuit loss.The Federal Court yesterday found Pesutto had defamed exiled MP Moira Deeming, with Justice David O'Callaghan awarding her $300,000 in damages.Groth, a former tennis professional, said in a statement he would step down from his roles as shadow minister for youth and shadow minister for tourism, sport and events because Pesutto had not stood down following the court decision.
Sam Groth will step down from his roles as shadow minister for youth and shadow minister for tourism, sport and events. (Photograph by Chris Hopkins)"At all times in my life, both professionally and personally, I have believed in acting with integrity," he said."It is with regret that, following yesterday's Federal Court judgment against John Pesutto and his subsequent decision to remain as Liberal leader, I have decided to resign from his front bench."In good conscience, I can no longer continue to serve in this role."My loyalty remains with the members of the Liberal Party, the people of my electorate of Nepean, and all Victorians."I will continue to represent them and work alongside my colleagues to develop the vision and policies we will take to the election in November 2026."I will be making no further public comment at this time."
A Federal Court found John Pesutto defamed Moira Deeming. (Joe Armao)A replacement for Groth has not been named.Other Liberal MPs have rallied behind Pesutto after a call to spill the leadership.Former leader Matthew Guy dismissed MP Bev McArthur's calls for the opposition leader to throw open his position."It's not a difficult proposition, John's got the overwhelming party room support, everyone knows that," Guy said.