FRANKSTON MP Paul Edbrooke has been promoted to the state government’s cabinet, picking up three newly created portfolios and assuming the role of minister for consumer affairs.
Edbrooke will also act as the state’s first ever minister for men and boys. He has also been appointed minister for cost of living, and minister for renting.
Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny has had her significant role on the frontbench further expanded. She is now the minister for violence reduction and minister for finance, in addition to her existing roles as attorney-general and planning minister.
Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson, who was previously parliamentary secretary to the Premier; parliamentary secretary for men’s behaviour change, health, and wellbeing; and parliamentary secretary for violence reduction has been appointed the new cabinet secretary.
After his elevation to cabinet, Edbrooke said “we know the cost of living is putting pressure on family budgets and family time. As the new minister for cost of living and renters, I’ll be working hard to deliver new solutions to help Victorians doing it tough.”
“In my role as minister for men and boys, this portfolio focuses on building a better future for Victorian boys and men: mentally healthy, emotionally capable, respectful in relationships, connected to community and getting support early – because that makes Victoria safer and stronger for everyone,” he said. “I am committed in my role as minister for consumer affairs, to building on the strong foundations laid by The Hon. Nick Staikos MP, continuing the important work in consumer affairs with focus, integrity, and a clear dedication to delivering for the community.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said “this is the strong, united team focused on delivering for Victorian families – and ready for the work ahead.”
“The cost of living is putting pressure on family budgets and family time. We’re making work from home a right, we’ve made public transport free in April as a temporary measure and we’re delivering more homes young people can afford near trains and jobs.” she said. “That’s why Paul Edbrooke will become the new minister for cost of living to continue this important work. In addition he will become the first minister for renters, because only Labor is making renting fairer and more affordable.
“My Labor team has a unity of purpose that is guided by our values. This is a new team, with new energy and new solutions.”
The cabinet reshuffle was sparked by the resignations of Mary-Anne Thomas, Danny Pearson, and Gayle Tierney.
First published in the Mornington News – 21 April 2026
