Results of the 1945 Victorian state election (Legislative Assembly)

The 1945 Victorian state election was held on 10 November 1945 for the Victorian Legislative Assembly. This election occurred during the final months of World War II. The election resulted in a narrow victory for the Country Party, led by Premier Albert Dunstan, albeit after significant political manoeuvring following the election.

Prior to the election, the Country Party governed in coalition with the United Australia Party (UAP) and the Liberal Party. However, the relationship between the coalition partners had become strained.

The election itself saw gains for the Labor Party, led by John Cain Sr., who campaigned on issues such as post-war reconstruction and social welfare. The UAP and Liberal parties also contested the election, highlighting the fracturing of the conservative vote.

The final seat count was as follows:

• Labor Party: Significant gains
• Country Party: Majority, but dependent on support
• United Australia Party: Remained a presence
• Liberal Party: Maintained a number of seats
• Independents: Retained a minor presence

Following the election, no single party held a majority. Albert Dunstan and the Country Party were able to secure enough support, including from some UAP and Liberal members, to form a minority government. This required skillful negotiation and political compromise. Despite their gains, the Labor Party remained in opposition.

The 1945 election was significant in Victorian political history as it reflected the changing social and economic landscape in the wake of World War II. The election also highlighted the ongoing tensions and realignments within the conservative political forces in Victoria. The Dunstan government continued to govern until it was defeated in 1952.