By Michaela Meade
Yan Yean MP Danielle Green will not be seeking re-election in 2022.
Ms Green has held the seat for Yan Yean since 2002 and served the community for close to two decades.
In a statement posted to her Facebook page, Ms Green said it had been an “honour and privilege” to serve the community.
“During the seven years of the Andrews Labor government, the premier, treasurer and ministers have listened to my advocacy on jobs, schools, TAFE, health, roads, public transport, community safety, creative industries, sport and much more,” she said in the post.
“I thank them for their support.
“Elected to parliament almost two decades ago, with my youngest son still at primary school, it was my family and loyal network of friends who kept the home fires burning.
“It is now my turn to support them.”
Ms Green took leave earlier this year to care for her husband, amid health problems.
“I look forward to a work-life balance that will give me the time to care for my husband Michael and to spend more time with my sons Blake and Carlo, their partners Glen and Paola, my sisters Gabrielle, Julianna and Francine, my nephews Giona and Xavi, and my 82-year-old Mum, Wilma,” she said.
Ms Green said while she was leaving parliament, it would not mean her retirement.
“I’ll continue to pursue my many passions: more jobs for people with disability, getting overseas students back to Victoria – especially to our regions, affordable and sustainable housing, sport for all, creative industries, tackling climate change and fighting injustice in all its forms,” she said in the post.
“In my final year in the Victorian parliament, I will continue to be the voice and to deliver for the wonderful people of Yan Yean.”
In a statement, Premier Daniel Andrews said Ms Green “fought tooth and nail” to deliver for the community she represented.
“That fighting spirit has seen Danielle deliver huge wins for her community – including the return of passenger trains to Mernda for the first time in 60 years,” Mr Andrews said.
“Whether it’s local roads and rail, schools, access to TAFE or vital health and ambulance services, her advocacy and the outcomes she has secured will be a lasting legacy.
“I thank Danielle for her many years of service to the Parliament and the Labor Party, and wish her the very best for the future.”
