Three long-serving members of the Labor Party have announced their decision to step down from their ministerial positions and will not seek re-election in the upcoming state election. The MPs, Mary Anne Thomas, Danny Pearson, and Gayle Tierney, made their intentions clear on Monday, stating that they will vacate their current roles immediately.
The parliamentary Labor party is scheduled to convene tomorrow to select new cabinet members to fill the vacancies left by these retiring officials. The state election in Victoria is set for November.
Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her gratitude towards the three MPs for their years of dedicated service. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to my long-time colleagues – Mary Anne Thomas, Danny Pearson, and Gayle Tierney – for their unwavering commitment over the years as they retire from both the ministry and, by the end of the year, the parliament,” she remarked. “Each of them has made a lasting impact on our state, our government, and the Labor movement.”
Mary Anne Thomas has represented the Macedon district since 2014 and has been the Health Minister since 2022. Throughout her career, she has also held positions in ambulance services, regional development, and agriculture under both the Andrews and Allan administrations. Reflecting on her time in office, she said, “It doesn’t get any better than this; it’s been the best time of my life.” Taking over the health portfolio during the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas noted the challenges and rewards of her role, stating, “I have worked all my life for a better, fairer, and more equal world, and my approach has always been to leave nothing in the tank. However, I realize that I can’t commit to another four years.”
Danny Pearson, who has been the MP for Essendon since 2014, has held various portfolios, most recently as Minister for Finance and Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs. His announcement of retirement was emotional, as he took time to express his gratitude to his constituency. “I’ve done a job I love and worked alongside people I admire and respect,” he shared. “Public life is a gift, and government is the greatest of gifts. I have been fortunate to have this experience, and I thank the people of Essendon for this opportunity.” He also highlighted his role in banning engineered stone throughout the state as a significant achievement.
Gayle Tierney, the longest-serving of the three, has represented the Western Victoria Region since 2006, starting under then-Premier Steve Bracks. She acknowledged the support from her constituents, having been elected five times, and stated her intention to continue serving them until the election. “While it is a sad day in some respects, it is also an exciting day for myself and my family,” she remarked. “After nearly 20 years in parliament, it is simply time to pass the baton.”
Victorians will head to the polls on November 28 for the state election.
