Danny O’Brien has been elected unopposed as leader of the Victorian Nationals after Peter Walsh stepped down yesterday.

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy will continue as deputy leader.

Mr Walsh will remain the Member for Murray Plains.

Having started in politics in 2002, Mr Walsh served as a minister in the Baillieu and Napthine Coalition governments, and has been leader of the Victorian Nationals since 2014.

Mr O’Brien, Member for Gippsland South, has most recently held the shadow portfolios of roads and road safety, and casino, gaming and liquor regulation. 

“For over 100 years, The Nationals have served the interests of rural and regional Victoria. That will not change,” he said.

“It remains our singular focus as the only party solely dedicated to serving the interests of the 25 per cent of the population who live outside the metropolitan area.

“I entered politics because I have always believed rural and regional people get a raw deal. As leader of our great party, I will fight every day for country people to get a fair go.

“We have an excellent team of local champions who fight every day for their electorates from Mildura to Mallacoota.

“I look forward to working with Emma and the rest of the team to continue serving the people of rural and regional Victoria.”

Ms Kealy said she was looking forward to continuing her role in fighting for regional Victorians.

“The Nationals have a formidable team of community champions in Parliament and every day we stand side-by-side with our community to ensure they’re voice is heard,” she said. 

 “I look forward to continuing my role in leadership, working with Danny, our MPs and all our members and supporters who are fighting together for a fair deal for regional Victorians.”

National leader of The Nationals David Littleproud thanked Mr Walsh, and said he had left a legacy to be proud of, including expanding the Victorian Nationals party room to the best result since the 1940s.

The entire November 27, 2024 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire November,27, 2024 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!