Jacinta Allan has resigned as Victorian premier before a leadership challenge by Ben Carroll, prompting a heated Labor meeting in which Gabrielle Williams became deputy and interim leader.
Key facts
- Jacinta Allan has resigned as Victorian premier.
- Her resignation came before a leadership challenge by Ben Carroll.
- Gabrielle Williams became Victorian Labor deputy and interim leader in a heated meeting.
- Victoria's state attorney general nominated for the Labor leadership.
- The state debt is described as heading towards $200bn.
Jacinta Allan has resigned as Victorian premier, according to the Guardian, stepping down before a leadership challenge by Ben Carroll. As she departed, Allan urged women not to be discouraged from entering politics.
The resignation triggered a heated Labor party meeting. The Guardian reports that the state attorney general nominated for the Victorian Labor leadership during the meeting, while Gabrielle Williams became the party’s deputy and interim leader.
The leadership contest unfolds against a backdrop of significant challenges for the state government. According to the reporting, Victoria has a debt heading towards $200bn, teachers have been striking over a pay deal the state government and Ben Carroll have been unable to secure, and there are complaints about the state of the roads.
Critics quoted in the coverage argued that fixing these problems requires a majority government and someone with a plan. One remark suggested that any move by a new leader to call a royal commission could be seen as performative and driven by concern about the polls rather than sincere concern about corruption.
Separately, the same Guardian live coverage reported on developments within the union movement. Michele O’Neil, president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, said it was the ‘right time’ to leave after announcing her departure alongside ACTU secretary Sally McManus.
O’Neil framed the decision as one of renewal, saying the union movement was in good shape, that it had begun growing for the first time in decades, and that next year would mark the 100th anniversary of the ACTU. She said it was time for a new leadership team to come in.
Why it matters
A change of premier in Victoria reshapes leadership of one of Australia's largest states amid debate over public debt, teacher pay disputes and government performance. Who leads Victorian Labor next will shape how these pressing issues are addressed.
Frequently asked questions
Who has become Victorian Labor's interim leader?
According to the Guardian, Gabrielle Williams became the Victorian Labor deputy and interim leader in a heated meeting after Jacinta Allan resigned as premier.
Why did Jacinta Allan resign?
The Guardian reports that Allan resigned as Victorian premier before a leadership challenge by Ben Carroll. As she quit, she urged women not to be discouraged from entering politics.
What challenges is the Victorian government facing?
The coverage cites a state debt heading towards $200bn, teachers striking over an unresolved pay deal, and complaints about the condition of the roads.