Jacinta Allan Elected as Victoria’s New Premier-Elect, Making History as Second Female Leader

Jacinta Allan has been elected as the new premier-elect of Victoria, making her the second female leader in the state’s history and the first Labor premier from regional Victoria in almost a century. This comes after the shock resignation of Daniel Andrews less than 24 hours earlier. Allan, who has been a member of parliament since 1999, entered the caucus meeting on Wednesday to run for the leadership of the Victorian Labor Party.

Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll was chosen as the deputy premier. The caucus meeting started late as Carroll decided to nominate for the leadership. However, Allan emerged from the meeting with enough support to become premier without the need for a vote by the party’s membership. Paul Hamer, the returning officer for the party, confirmed that all positions had been elected unopposed, with Allan as the new premier and Carroll as the deputy premier.

Allan has an impressive political career, having become the youngest minister in the state’s history at the age of 29. She has served in various ministerial roles, including as the minister for transport infrastructure and the suburban rail loop project. She was also responsible for delivering the now-cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games until the portfolio was abolished. Allan resides in Bendigo with her husband and two children.

The vacant ministerial cabinet spot left by Andrews’ departure will be filled by Vicki Ward, the MP for Eltham. This new leadership team brings a combination of regional and metropolitan representation, with Allan hailing from regional Victoria and Carroll serving as the Public Transport Minister in Melbourne.

The election of Jacinta Allan as the new premier-elect of Victoria marks a significant milestone in the state’s political landscape. Her experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding Victoria through the challenges ahead. With a focus on transport infrastructure and regional development, Allan’s tenure as premier is expected to bring positive changes to the state.

It will be interesting to see how Allan’s regional background influences her policies and priorities as premier. With a strong emphasis on representing the needs of regional Victoria, she may introduce initiatives and reforms to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities. Additionally, her portfolio experience in transport infrastructure suggests a commitment to improving connectivity and accessibility across the state.

Overall, the election of Jacinta Allan as the new premier-elect of Victoria signifies a changing political landscape in the state. With her regional background and extensive experience, she brings a fresh perspective to the role. As she takes office, all eyes will be on Allan as she navigates the complex issues facing Victoria and works towards a prosperous future for the state.