Gayle Tierney Named As New Victorian Water Minister

The Honourable Gayle Tierney, Member of the Legislative Council for Western Victoria, has been appointed Victorian Water Minister. Gayle was elected to the Legislative Council in 2006.

Gayle replaces Member of the Legislative Council for Eastern Victoria, the Honourable Harriet Shing.

Gayle is also the Minister for Skills and TAFE, being appointed in October 2023.

Gayle’s was previously the Minister for Regional Development from October 2023 until December 2024, the Minister for Training and Skills from November 2016 until October 2023, the Minister for Higher Education from December 2018 until October 2023, the Minister for Agriculture from June 2022 until October 2023, and the Minister for Corrections from November 2016 until December 2018.

Before entering Parliament, Gayle was the State Secretary, and Federal President, of the Vehicle Division of the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union. Gayle was also an executive member of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.

Gayle previously studied Politics and Asian Studies at Flinders University.

Gayle’s Parliamentary profile can be viewed here.

Gayle has no known experience or qualification in agriculture or water management.

The appointment of Ministers with no experience or qualifications in agriculture to agricultural Ministries is a continuing problem for the people in the country areas of both Victoria and NSW. Regrettably, there is no indication that Gayle, or any potential Minister, will be competent in agricultural affairs. This intensifies the already existing problem of these States being dominated by the population and politicians of their urban areas that have little to no interest in non urban affairs.

A Riverina State will be much more likely to be governed by Members of Parliament with the experience and qualifications appropriate for the industries in this State, with the consequent benefits flowing to this State’s people. This State is needed – Now.

David Landini