Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan today announced a major Cabinet reshuffle, describing it as a “strong, united Labor team” aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures and improving essential services.
“This is a new team, with new energy and new solutions,” Allan said, as she outlined sweeping changes across key portfolios including health, housing and economic growth.
Among the most significant appointments, Harriet Shing will take over as Minister for Health, Ambulance Services and Water, with a focus on making healthcare “easier and cheaper for busy families to access”.
Ingrid Stitt has been named Special Minister for State, taking on responsibilities for transparency and accountability, alongside portfolios covering government services and multicultural and multifaith affairs.
Addressing mounting pressure on household budgets, Allan said the reshuffle sharpened the government’s focus on affordability.
“The cost of living is putting pressure on family budgets and family time,” she said.
In a newly created role, Paul Edbrooke becomes Minister for Cost of Living and the state’s first Minister for Renters, tasked with making renting “fairer and more affordable”.
Economic growth and jobs will be led by Steve Dimopoulos, while Colin Brooks takes on industry, advanced manufacturing, defence industry, and skills and TAFE.
Housing and one of the state’s biggest infrastructure projects, the Suburban Rail Loop, will be overseen by Nick Staikos, as the government continues its push to deliver more homes near transport and jobs.
Allan said major projects like the Suburban Rail Loop would “slash travel times and cut congestion” while supporting the delivery of thousands of new homes.
Other changes include Natalie Suleyman taking on tourism, Gabrielle Williams becoming Minister for Women and Girls, and Sonya Kilkenny adding violence reduction and finance to her existing responsibilities.
Regional Victoria will also be a focus, with Michaela Settle appointed Minister for Regional Development and Agriculture.
Allan said the refreshed Cabinet was united by a clear purpose.
“My Labor team has a unity of purpose that is guided by our values,” she said.
“This is the strong, united team focused on delivering for Victorian families – and ready for the work ahead.”
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