Pallas Holds Key Economic Portfolios Despite Deputy Leader Bid Setback
In a significant political development, Werribee MP Tim Pallas is set to maintain his position as Victorian Treasurer, as announced by the newly appointed Premier, Jacinta Allan, during her cabinet unveiling on Monday. Pallas will not only retain his role as Treasurer but will also continue to oversee the portfolios of Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Economic Growth. This decision comes on the heels of his recent bid for the deputy leadership, a bid that ultimately fell short following the resignation of Daniel Andrews.
Pallas had initially thrown his hat into the ring for the deputy leadership position in a strategic move to consolidate leadership positions within the Socialist Left faction. However, he later withdrew his candidacy, making way for Niddrie MP Ben Carroll to assume the role uncontested. Carroll, now the new Education Minister, had previously abandoned his own bid for the premiership, paving the way for Jacinta Allan to take on the top job.
Tim Pallas has been a constant presence as Treasurer since the Labor party’s victory in 2014 and has been serving as a Member of Parliament since 2006. Despite widespread speculation that he might follow the footsteps of his close associate, Daniel Andrews, and step down from politics, the 63-year-old has declared his intent to remain in parliament.
Another noteworthy appointment resulting from the cabinet reshuffle is the selection of Western Region MLC Ingrid Stitt, who will take on the roles of Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, and Minister for Multicultural Affairs. Stitt joins Pallas and Melton MP Steve McGhie as the only representatives from the outer western suburbs to secure positions in the cabinet. McGhie, for his part, will retain his role as cabinet secretary.
Of particular interest is the absence of other Wyndham MPs in the list of ministers or parliamentary secretaries in this cabinet reshuffle, signaling a significant political landscape in the region. The swearing-in ceremony for the new cabinet was held on Monday afternoon, marking the official commencement of their roles in the Victorian government.
