The Victorian Liberal party's campaign bus, named the 'Jess Express', encountered an issue on its inaugural outing when it reversed into a shop awning in Bentleigh, Melbourne. The bus, featuring opposition leader Jess Wilson's image and campaign slogans, caused minor damage but no injuries were reported among the passengers, which included party members and journalists.
This incident occurred as the party kicked off its campaign ahead of the November 28 elections. Despite the mishap, the Liberals are reportedly leading in polls, with a focus on key issues like cost of living and crime in the electorate of Bentleigh, which is seen as a bellwether for election outcomes.
Watch for how the campaign adapts after this mishap. The focus on cost of living and crime will be crucial as the election approaches. With Bentleigh's history as a bellwether, any missteps could sway undecided voters ahead of the November 28 elections.