Liberals surge in polls as leader signs up for debate

Victorian Liberal leader Jess Wilson has agreed to participate in a four-way debate ahead of the state election, as polling indicates growing support for her party. Wilson confirmed on Saturday her commitment to a four-way debate with Premier Ben Carroll, Greens leader Ellen Sandell, and One Nation's Warren Pickering. The debate will be hosted by News24 and the Herald Sun.

Wilson stated she is pleased to be part of the "people's forum" and challenged Premier Carroll to debate her directly, implying he is avoiding a head-to-head confrontation. The Liberal-National coalition currently leads the polls, with 29.5 percent support, compared to Labor's 22.5 percent and One Nation at 22 percent. A two-party preferred basis shows the coalition leading by 56 percent to Labor's 44 percent.

Despite the coalition's prominent position, a majority government is not guaranteed due to the competitive nature of many seats and the influence of One Nation.