How two byelections could shape Labor and the Greens in Victoria

Labor candidate John Lister must hold on to ALP stronghold Werribee if the government is to maintain momentum before a Victorian election in 2026. Photograph: Christopher Hopkins/The Guardian

At first glance the two Melbourne seats seem worlds apart – one a fast-expanding electorate in the outer west, the other a progressive hub in the inner city. But despite their differences the results of the byelections being held for Werribee and Prahran on Saturday will be pivotal for Victoria’s political future, particularly for Jacinta Allan’s Labor government.

For the government, holding on to Werribee – a stronghold for Labor since 1979 – is essential to maintaining momentum before next year’s state election.