Results of the 1920 Victorian state election (Legislative Assembly)

The 1920 Victorian state election for the Legislative Assembly was held on 27 November 1920. All 65 seats in the Victorian Legislative Assembly were up for election. This election saw the first significant entry of the Country Party into Victorian politics.

The election was conducted under a preferential voting system. The incumbent Nationalist government, led by Premier Harry Lawson, faced challenges from the Victorian Labor Party, the newly formed Country Party, and various independent candidates.

Key issues during the election campaign included post-war reconstruction, agricultural policies, and the role of government in the economy. The Country Party advocated for policies specifically tailored to the needs of rural communities.

The election resulted in a hung parliament. While the Nationalist Party won the most seats, they did not secure an overall majority. The Country Party gained considerable ground, holding the balance of power.

Following the election, negotiations took place to determine the composition of the next government. Initially, there was the possibility of a coalition between the Nationalist and Country Parties. However, disagreements over policy and leadership prevented a formal coalition. Eventually, the Nationalist government, led by Harry Lawson, was able to continue in office, relying on the support of some independent members to maintain a working majority. The Country Party formed a significant opposition force in the Legislative Assembly.

The outcome of the 1920 election marked a turning point in Victorian politics, signaling the rise of the Country Party as a major political force and ushering in a period of coalition and minority governments. Detailed results can be found in historical election records held by the Victorian Electoral Commission and the Parliament of Victoria archives.