After nearly a decade at the helm, Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh has stepped down, passing the torch to Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien. The leadership change, announced at a party meeting at Victorian Parliament this morning, marks a new chapter for the party.
Walsh, who’s been the MP for Swan Hill since 2002, isn’t going anywhere, though—he’ll remain in parliament, continuing to represent his community.
O’Brien, elected unopposed as the new leader, had nothing but praise for Walsh. “He’s been an absolute champion for regional Victoria, not just during his 22 years in parliament but long before that,” O’Brien said. “He’s been a fantastic leader, a voice of reason, and a source of wise counsel through some tough times. We owe him a big thank you.”
For O’Brien, stepping into the role is both a “privilege and honour.” Reflecting on his own journey, he shared, “I joined the party 22 years ago, and it’s a huge responsibility to now lead it. I’m grateful to my colleagues for their trust.”
He’s excited to team up with deputy leader Emma Kealy and the rest of the Nationals team to keep fighting for rural and regional Victoria. “That’s what we’ve always done, and that won’t change,” he said.
The leadership shift signals continuity with a fresh perspective, as the Nationals focus on what’s next for Victoria’s regions.
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