‘Simply time’: Tierney to exit politics at 2026 state poll

Geelong-based upper house MP Gayle Tierney will not contest the 2026 Victorian election, ending a near two-decade stint in state parliament.

The member for Western Victoria confirmed the decision on Monday and announced she would step down from her ministerial duties.

Tierney has served as minister for skills and TAFE since 2023 and minister for water since 2024.

“This has not been an easy decision – but for me it is the correct one, and it feels right,” Tierney said.

“For more than 45 years, I have had the honour of serving working people – including 36 years in elected office.

“And as I look ahead, I do so with confidence – in the depth of talent and energy within our team, and in the next generation of leaders who will continue the work of building a fairer, stronger Victoria.

“After nearly 20 years in Parliament, for me, it is simply time to pass the baton.”

Gayle Tierney was first elected into parliament in 2006.

Tiereny reflected fondly on her time in government including her time serving across portfolios including higher education, agriculture, regional development and corrections.

She said she was particularly proud of her work on TAFE reform to modernise and revitalise vocational education.

“I have always believed that vocational education must stand as an equal first choice alongside university, and I am proud that the reforms led here in Victoria have now largely been adopted by the federal government and are shaping the national skills agenda,” Tierney said.

She also pointed to her advocacy for regional communities across western Victoria and said she would continue to serve constituents until November’s election.

Premier Jacinta Allen thanked Tierney for her time in office and dedication to working people.

“Gayle Tierney has served in elected office for 36 years, and during that time has achieved so much fighting for working people,” Allan said.

“As a minister for almost a decade in a variety of roles, it was her work leading the restoration of skills and TAFE in Victoria, after being destroyed by state and federal Liberal governments, that meant so much to me. Free TAFE will mean more Victorians can continue to retrain, upskill and access secure work.”

Tierney is one of three Labor representatives to announce their departure ahead of the election, alongside Danny Pearson and Mary-Anne Thomas.