The Labor Party has accused Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu of being gutless for not running a candidate in next month's by-election for the safe Labor seat of Niddrie.
Opposition deputy leader James Merlino told AAP that the decision by the government to opt out of the Niddrie race is telling the people of that seat that they don't figure in the government's plans.
"They are running from the fight," Mr Merlino said.
The by-election is caused by the resignation of former attorney-general Rob Hull who held the seat at the last election by 6.9 per cent.
The Victorian Liberal Party's state director Damien Mantach said on Tuesday night that the parliamentary leadership group and the party's administrative committee decided against contesting Niddrie.
"This seat is held by less than seven per cent and it's going to be a tough fight - it's a winnable seat for the government," Mr Merlino said.
"Ted Baillieu has decided he is not up to the fight and is telling the people of Niddrie that `we don't give a stuff about you'
"They are too gutless to front up."
The government said it would continue to focus on its agenda and the commitment to a strong economy in challenging times.
It said it would enhance front line services and infrastructure to provide necessary social and community services in key areas such as police and community safety, health and education.
The Labor Party will announce its candidate at the end of the month with Labor staffers Ben Carroll and Jaclyn Symes and City of Moonee Valley councillor John Sipek among possible contenders.
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