Victorian Labor Minister for Child Protection, Minister for Disability, Ageing & Carers Luke Donnellan has said he is stepping down as a Minister in the Andrews Government.
In a statement from his office, Donnellan said, “Today I called the Premier to inform him that I’m stepping down as a Minister in the Andrews Government. I accept that I have previously breached party rules while a Minister.”
Donnellan said he never misused public funds or resources in any way. “And this has absolutely nothing to do with my staff.”
“However, I don’t believe it is possible or appropriate to maintain my Ministerial responsibilities given these rule breaches. The work to support vulnerable Victorians is too important, especially during the pandemic.
“Serving as a Minister in this government has been an incredible privilege and I thank the Premier and my colleagues for that opportunity.”
Thanking his staff and all the department officials who have been working “so bloody hard” to support the community, Donnellan added, ” You’ve been marvellous.”
In response to this, Premier Daniel Andrews said due to inquiries currently on foot, he will not be making further comment but thanked Donnellan for his contribution to the government in his various ministerial portfolios, particularly his hard work in child protection, disability and ageing.
“He has been a passionate advocate for vulnerable kids, people with disability and older Victorians and he leaves a legacy of reform of which he can be proud.
“Luke’s work has seen a transformation of the system for children and families in Victoria, investing in hundreds of dedicated child protection workers and navigators to do their important work supporting families and kids – making sure they have the stable foundation to begin their lives,” Andrews said.
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