Peter Dutton learned he would face the first significant electoral test of his opposition leadership in early January, when the besieged Alan Tudge told him he wanted out of political life. Anthony Albanese found out on Thursday morning when Tudge came to see him.
This test will play out in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne in a byelection triggered by the departure. The Victorian electorate of Aston is classic commuter country, and since taking the leadership of the Liberal party after the terrible voter excoriation last May, Dutton has appointed himself the high priest of suburban angst.
