The newly restructured cabinet for Victoria has officially been inaugurated, with Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke assuming the role of the first-ever minister dedicated to addressing the cost of living. This cabinet reshuffle, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, follows the announcement of retirements by three members of parliament earlier this week, who are set to exit politics at the upcoming election.
Among the changes, first-term MP Luba Grigorovitch has been appointed as the new youth minister, while Paul Hamer will oversee local government, youth justice, and corrections. Michaela Settle has taken on the responsibilities of regional development and agriculture.
Furthermore, Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny will expand her duties to include the finance portfolio in addition to her current role, which now also encompasses the violence reduction initiative. Nick Staikos is stepping in for Harriet Shing as the minister responsible for the Suburban Rail Loop, with Ms. Shing transitioning to the health portfolio previously held by Mary-Anne Thomas, another retiring MP.
Ingrid Stitt has been appointed as the new special minister of state, while Steve Dimopoulos will now oversee economic growth and job creation alongside his existing roles in sports and major events. Premier Allan emphasized the significance of introducing a dedicated cost of living minister, stating, “The rising cost of living is straining family budgets and affecting quality time together.”
She elaborated on the government’s initiatives, including making work-from-home arrangements a right, providing free public transport for a limited time in April, and facilitating the construction of affordable housing near public transportation and employment opportunities. “This is why Paul Edbrooke will be appointed as the minister for cost of living, to continue this vital work,” she added.
In addition to his new responsibilities, Mr. Edbrooke will also serve as the state’s inaugural minister for renters, as well as oversee matters related to men and boys and consumer affairs.
Newly appointed Health Minister Harriet Shing will manage ambulance services and water portfolios, with Premier Allan expressing confidence in her ability to bring innovative solutions to public health challenges. “She will support our dedicated health workforce and drive our efforts to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for busy families,” Ms. Allan stated.
