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\u201cWe ask so much of Victoria Police. And they always deliver. To each member of Victoria Police, sworn and non-sworn, thank you so much for your work and service.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe water grid has been expanded, there is far greater water security for Melbourne, and we are well positioned for the challenges of the future. For the first time, Traditional Owners have had water returned to them, and we\u2019ve met our Murray Darling Basin environmental obligations while at the same time locking in the future prosperity of northern Victorian irrigation communities.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIn what is one of the hardest decisions I have had to make, and only after consulting with doctors, family and my friends, I have decided to not recontest the seat of Bellarine in the 2022 state election.”<\/p>\n
Elected to Parliament in the same year as Ms Neville, Mr Andrews described her as a dear friend, trusted colleague and respected by all.<\/p>\n
“Lisa has been a tireless champion for every portfolio she’s held,” Mr Andrews said.<\/p>\n
Ms Neville took a leave of absence from Parliament and her ministerial duties last year after being diagnosed with Crohn\u2019s disease.<\/p>\n
\u201cAfter a long and complicated battle with the disease, I was determined to return to work and the privilege of serving the Victorian community,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy recovery in 2021 allowed me to resume work in late 2021, but I know I cannot give another four years. I wish it were otherwise, but I must be honest with myself, the wonderful people I work with and the Bellarine community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms Neville will remain the Member for Bellarine until the election and in her portfolios until the Premier announces a new Cabinet.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BELLARINE MP Lisa Neville has ended speculation about her pending retirement, announcing today (Friday, June 24) she will not recontest her seat at November\u2019s state election. One of the Andrews Labor Government\u2019s most senior members, the Minister for Police and Water is among four cabinet members who today announced their intentions to retire, including Deputy […]<\/p>\n