Following the surprise resignation of Dan Andrews yesterday, Jacinta Allan is set to become Victoria’s next premier after the Labor caucus reached a decision on Wednesday.
Allan, who is currently the state’s deputy premier, is expected to be elected unopposed by the Labor caucus on Wednesday. She is the longest-serving female minister in Victorian history and is considered to be a safe pair of hands.
Allan is a member of the Socialist Left faction of the Labor Party, the same faction as Andrews. She has held a number of portfolios in the Andrews government, including education, transport and infrastructure.
Allan is seen as a competent and experienced administrator. She is also known for her strong work ethic and her commitment to social justice.
Ben Carroll, a senior figure from the Right who initially challenged Allan for the position, will serve as her deputy as part of a deal between the Left and Right factions.
Allan’s appointment as premier is expected to be welcomed by the Victorian business community. Allan has a good relationship with businesses and is seen as a pragmatist.
However, Allan is also likely to face some challenges as premier. The Victorian economy is facing a number of headwinds, including rising inflation and interest rates. Allan will also need to address the state’s infrastructure deficit and its growing population.
Overall, Jacinta Allan is a well-respected and experienced politician who is well-placed to lead Victoria into the future.
The Rise of Victoria’s Premier-Elect
Jacinta Marie Allan, born on 19 September 1973, has emerged as a linchpin of Victorian politics, recently being elected unopposed as the Leader of the Labor Party and consequently, the Premier of Victoria on 27 September 2023. Before her elevation, she served with distinction as the 29th and current Deputy Premier of Victoria, a tenure she began just a day before her nomination as Premier.
Humble Beginnings
Coming from a respected political lineage in Bendigo, Allan is the proud granddaughter of the late Bendigo Trades Hall Council President, William Allan. The Bendigo roots run deep; she completed her primary education at St Joseph’s Primary School in Quarry Hill and pursued higher education at Catholic College Bendigo. Her academic path led her to obtain a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from La Trobe University in Bendigo.
Entry into Politics
Before beginning her own political journey, Allan gained vital experience working in the political offices of Steve Gibbons and Neil O’Keefe. Her hard work and dedication to public service saw her elected to the Victorian Legislative Assembly in 1999, representing the division of Bendigo East. At just 25, Allan made history by becoming the youngest ever elected female parliamentarian in Victoria.
Ministerial Stints
Under the Bracks and Brumby governments, Allan served in various capacities, including as Minister for Education Services, Employment and Youth Affairs, and later, Women’s Affairs. The year 2010 saw her taking on the role of Minister for Industry and Trade. Allan’s commendable work as a minister made her a favorite target for opposition groups, especially for her progressive stance on issues like abortion reform.
Following the defeat of the Brumby government in 2010, Allan showcased her leadership qualities, taking on significant roles in the opposition, which included responsibilities like Roads, Regional and Rural Development, Bushfire Response, and later Agriculture, Regional Cities, and Regional & Rural Development.
In the aftermath of the 2014 Victorian state election, Allan was designated as Minister for Public Transport and Employment in the First Andrews Ministry. Her tenure saw her spearheading mega infrastructure projects like the Suburban Rail Loop and Metro Tunnel.
During the turbulent times of the COVID-19 health emergency, Allan’s leadership came to the fore as she became a pivotal member of the Crisis Council of Cabinet. Her role was focused on coordinating all COVID-19 response activities across the transport sector.
A Personal Touch
Allan’s rise in politics has not been devoid of personal challenges. She faced the traumatic loss of her cousin, Keith William Allan, who was tragically murdered in 2000. Despite her high-profile political career, Allan remains grounded, cherishing her personal life. She enjoys a fulfilling family life in Bendigo, where she was born and raised, alongside her husband and their two children.
Legacy
Having served as an MLA since 1999 for Bendigo East, Allan stands out as the longest-serving Victorian female minister in the state’s history. Her ascendancy to the Premier’s role following Daniel Andrews’ resignation marks a new chapter in her illustrious political career. As she steps into this role, Victoria awaits the leadership of a woman who, with her experience and resilience, promises a bright future for the state.
