Former cabinet minister Kevin Andrews is poised to become the first sitting federal Victorian Liberal in more than a decade to be challenged for his seat, amid warnings the move could trigger a fresh outbreak in factional fighting.

Melbourne barrister Keith Wolahan, a former member of Australia's special forces units, is expected to put his name forward for preselection in the seat of Menzies when nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday, January 29.

Kevin Andrews is expected to contest the seat. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The Victorian branch's decision to open nominations less than a year after winning a federal election caused fierce debate within the party, with federal MPs furious that it could distract from the Morrison government's agenda and fuel factional tensions.

Mr Wolahan – who completed two tours of Afghanistan in the 2nd Commando Regiment of the Australian Army and who has a degree from Cambridge – has long been touted as a potential rival to Mr Andrews.