Changes to the Victorian government’s ministry announced today will see Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan take responsibility for the state’s major infrastructure projects.
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Ms Allan will retain the public transport portfolio she has held since 2014 while also becoming major projects minister, a role that will see her co-ordinate a Flinders Street Station revamp, work on the Ballarat West employment zone and Fishermans Bend development.
In announcing the changes to the cabinet, Premier Daniel Andrews described Ms Allan as an “effective [person]”.
“She’s doing a great job in public transport and with the management of things like the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, the level crossing removal program, it’s a logical extension for her to broaden that out a little bit,” he said.
“I’m confident she’ll performance that very important role with great distinction.”
Speaking after her swearing in at Government House, Ms Allan said the new appointment sat neatly alongside her transport role.
“Having a minister with oversight of those projects is really quite important to ensure deadlines are met, budget are met, but also we have a broader oversight of Victoria’s pipeline of projects,” she said.
Asked whether Bendigonians would benefit from her new portfolio, Ms Allan said she looked forward to “expanding the horizons” of the major projects department into regional areas.
Other moves inside the cabinet include Williamstown MP Wade Noonan’s return from a leave of absence, taking on the portfolios of industry and employment, and resources, with changes in the automotive industry one of his priorities.
Water minister Lisa Neville will also assume responsibility for the police portfolio, while Lily D’Ambrosio will take on the new portfolio of Energy, Environment and Climate Change, with a focus on renewable resources.
Ms D’Ambrosio will also be appointed Minister for Suburban Development, developing five-year plans for jobs, services and infrastructure throughout the state.
On top of his training and skills responsibilities, Steve Herbert will take on the corrections and international education portfolios.
Mark Kearney
Journalist. Traveller. Pop culture connoisseur. Mark is passionate about education, the arts and social justice, especially stories affecting the LGBTI community.
Journalist. Traveller. Pop culture connoisseur. Mark is passionate about education, the arts and social justice, especially stories affecting the LGBTI community.
