O’Brien MP promoted to key roads, water and transport roles

STATE MP for the South Gippsland area, Danny O’Brien, would be a Minister in the next State Government if the Coalition won the election on Saturday, November 26.

Elected to State Parliament in March 2015, to replace the former leader of the Nationals and Deputy Premier Peter Ryan, Mr O’Brien was elevated to the role of Shadow Minister for Water, Public Transport and Roads and Gaming and Liquor Regulation during the week.

But it’s been a baptism of fire for the born-and-bred Gippslander with the State Government introducing new legislation on Monday, August 1, to address the money laundering excesses at Crown Melbourne, and to introduce a further 12 recommendations from the gaming Royal Commission, relating to gambling-harm minimisation.

Mr O’Brien will now be expected to lead the response on behalf of the Opposition.

Public Transport is another huge responsibility in the role.

“I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take on these responsibilities in addition to representing the needs of the Gippsland South community,” Mr O’Brien said this week.

“I will be working hard to ensure the Andrews Labor Government is held to account in these areas and also deliver policies from The Nationals and Liberals that will help improve our public transport services, road conditions and water management.

“I will also work to ensure a strong framework for the liquor and gaming sector.

“Each of these issues are critically important to the people of Gippsland. I’ve been advocating for better roads and the funding of key projects like the Princes Highway duplication and the Black Spur realignment on the South Gippsland Highway for all my time in Parliament.

“Likewise better rail and bus services are high on the agenda of many locals, while water is a vital part of our future success.”

Mr O’Brien said the water portfolio was especially close to his heart, having previously served as the CEO of the National Irrigators' Council from 2009 to 2011.

“I welcome the challenge that these new positions will bring and look forward to tackling the issues head on in order to achieve the best results possible for all of Victoria.”