Ben Carroll’s Victorian Cabinet Reshuffle: A Strategic Slim-Down Ahead of the Election
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has unveiled a streamlined cabinet ahead of the November 28 state election, confirming that the two vacancies left by the resignations of Lily D’Ambrosio and Harriet Shing will remain unfilled. This move reduces the size of the ministry, a strategic decision aimed at consolidating power and minimizing disruption as the election looms. According to sources, Carroll did not want to burden the cabinet with inexperienced MPs, especially with only a few meetings left before the poll. The reshuffle, which will be fully revealed tomorrow, sees a smaller number of MPs taking on expanded portfolios.
The new ministry reflects Carroll’s effort to balance factions and reward loyalty. Notably, Sonya Kilkenny, who challenged Carroll for leadership but stepped down in exchange for retaining her roles as attorney-general and planning minister, lost the finance portfolio but kept her senior positions. Meanwhile, Anthony Carbines gains significant responsibilities, taking over major events, medical research, trade and investment, and economic development, while retaining racing. Steve Dimopoulos, who lost major events and jobs, keeps sport, WorkSafe, and TAC. The reshuffle also eliminates dedicated portfolios for transport infrastructure and the Suburban Rail Loop, signaling a shift in priorities under Carroll’s leadership.
The internal dynamics were intense, with at least seven MPs from the Socialist Left faction vying for the two available cabinet spots. Carroll’s decision to leave the vacancies unfilled avoids further factional battles and allows him to maintain control. The new cabinet includes a mix of experienced hands and fresh faces, with Gabrielle Williams as deputy premier and education minister, and Jaclyn Symes taking on energy and climate portfolios. Notably, Nina Taylor is appointed cabinet secretary, a role that may serve as a stepping stone for future advancement.
As the election approaches, Carroll’s reshuffle is a calculated move to present a stable, experienced team to voters. By slimming the cabinet and concentrating portfolios, he aims to project efficiency and decisiveness. However, the removal of specific portfolios for major infrastructure projects like the Suburban Rail Loop raises questions about the government’s future commitments. With the full list now public, the coming weeks will reveal how this new team performs on the
Shimanta Das 
