New Victorian Ministers announced after multiple resignations

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has announced the appointment of Steve Dimopoulos as the state’s Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events and Minister for Creative Industries.

Today’s appointment follows the resignation yesterday of Martin Pakula, the current Minister, who resigned ahead of stepping down from the Parliament at the next state election in November. Minister Pakula’s resignation yesterday came along with Deputy Premier and Education Minister James Merlino, Health Minister Martin Foley and Police Minister Lisa Neville also stepping down from their roles.

The departure of four of Victoria's most-senior ministers has resulted in a significant shake-up of the Victorian Government's front bench.

As a result, Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan will become Deputy Premier while also overseeing the delivery of the Commonwealth Games.

Commenting on stepping down, Minister Pakula advised “politics is an all-consuming endeavour. It’s a job which often demands an unhealthy measure of emotional and mental commitment.

“As politicians, we are notoriously bad at appreciating when considerations for our own well-being demand that we stop and find something else to do with our lives. I’d like to think I’m not one of them.”

“A decade in the Ministry has taught me that a government with big ambitions for the state, its people and its future is something to be cherished.”

Looking forward to his new role, Minister Dimopoulos (pictured) said he intends to “give 110% to make sure we can do even more on behalf of those who put us here, the people of Victoria”.

The new ministry will be sworn in at Victoria’s Government House on Monday.