Michael OBriens chief of staff is leaving his job by mutual agreement following an internal review of the Opposition Leaders office in the lead up to the November 2022 state election.
In an email to colleagues on Friday, Mr OBrien confirmed Brett Hogan had been appointed to a new policy role within the Victorian Liberal Party.
Victorian Liberal leader Michael OBrien his removed his chief of staff Brett Hogan from the role.Credit:Scott McNaughton
In his new role Mr Hogan will work on the partys policy platform and help prepare the opposition for office, should the Coalition win the state election.
Mr Hogans departure follows a review of the functioning of Mr OBriens office by former Liberal Party federal director Brian Loughnane, first revealed by The Age.
Mr Hogan joined Mr OBriens office in December 2018 following the Liberal Partys disastrous state election loss. He had previously worked for Liberal ministers Peter Reith and Louise Asher and at conservative think tank the Institute of Public Affairs.
Mr OBrien, who remained loyal to his chief of staff, praised Mr Hogan for his experience and commitment to the Liberal Party.
Brett knows as do I that good policy is not only good politics, it is essential to a program for the type of reformist Liberal government that Victoria needs, and we are determined to be. He will continue to be key to our campaign to win government and rescue Victoria, Mr OBrien said.
“I am delighted that in his new role I will continue to have access to Bretts wise counsel and sharp political acumen.”
In March, Mr OBrien staved off a challenge to his leadership when only nine out of 31 party members voted for leadership contender Brad Battin. At the time Liberal MPs told The Age they were concerned about Mr Hogan, who they said was working in isolation from the wider party.