Liberal Nationals Shadow Ministry changes

Leader of the Opposition, Matthew Guy

The Liberal Nationals Coalition has today made changes to the Shadow Ministry following Russell Northe’s decision to stand aside from the Opposition frontbench.
The Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy joins the Shadow Cabinet with responsibility for Mental Health, Senior Victorians and Consumer Affairs.
The Leader of The Nationals, Peter Walsh assumes responsibility for the key Regional Development portfolio and remains as the Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Water.
Tim McCurdy has been appointed as the Liberal Nationals’ spokesperson for Gaming and Liquor Regulation and remains as Shadow Minister for Sport and Veterans.

The Liberal Nationals also welcome the Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath to the frontbench as Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Country Schools.

Comments attributable to Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy
“I am excited to welcome Emma Kealy to the Shadow Cabinet and am confident she will make a significant contribution to the election of a Liberal Nationals Coalition Government in 2018.
“Russell Northe’s enthusiasm and intelligence will be missed around the Shadow Cabinet table and I thank him for his contribution. The people of the Latrobe Valley have no greater advocate than Russell Northe and his decision reflects his strong commitment to helping them through this difficult time.”

Comments attributable to Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh
“The challenges that lie ahead for the people of the Latrobe Valley are immense and we fully support Russell’s decision to step down from the Shadow Ministry so he can focus entirely on the needs of his community.
“We welcome to the Shadow Ministry Emma Kealy, the Member for Lowan who has hit the ground running since her election in November 2014.
“Prior to entering Parliament, Emma spent 13 years working in the health sector including as CEO of Wimmera Health Service and this professional experience will no doubt help her keep the Andrews’ Labor Government accountable in the areas of Mental Health, Senior Victorians and Consumer Affairs.”

Media contact:  James Duncan     0457 758 018           james.duncan@opposition.vic.gov.au