by Afraa Kori
After representing Yan Yean for 20 years, Labour MP Danielle Green has decided to retire from politics.
Ms Green has spent her life working for the government as parliamentary secretary for regional Victoria, sport, police, emergency services, tourism and major events.
She also remained busy considering Yan Yean’s electorate is one of the fastest growing constituencies in Victoria.
While Ms Green finds great joy serving others she believes there’s more things to achieve in Parliament.
She said her life circumstances have changed dramatically and this is the season her family needs her the most.
“Originally I was planning to do another term, but I just reflected and thought, 20 years was a nice round number. And that, my husband’s not in great health and my mum’s getting older,” she said.
“Because the boundaries are changing significantly and the electorate is growing so much. I’m handing over to not one successor but four. Yan Yean electorate is now divided between Yan Yean, the new electorate of Kalkallo, the electorate of Eltham and the electorate of Eildon.”
Ms Green has always wanted to pass over to a woman to continue the legacy and shine.
“And in fact, I’m potentially handing over to four if all the four labour women are successful.”
What sustained her was the friendships and life lessons she has learned throughout her political career.
“I just reflect on these 20 years and the projects that I’ve been able to achieve together with my parliamentary colleagues and with the community, they have been really important. But what’s been most important is the people I’ve met on the journey. Whether it’s those that work locally, volunteer in the local sporting clubs or in emergency services. It’s just been an amazing privilege to represent the many and diverse communities of Yan Yean.”
