The Victorian government may avoid a bruising leadership challenge, with Jacinta Allan understood to be reconsidering her position within hours of an expected caucus vote.

While Premier Allan on Monday vowed to “fight all the way” any challenge to her leadership, overwhelming numbers in support of Deputy Premier Ben Carroll have increased pressure on her to resign.

One of Allan’s principal supporters, when contacted this morning about her prospect of surviving a spill motion, replied: “There may not be a contest.”

If Allan stands down, Carroll will become Victorian premier unopposed and lead the Labor Party to the November election.

The caucus is due to meet in parliament at 10am.