A Whiff of Deja Vu in Victoria’s New Government

Ben Carroll’s appointment of Chris Barrett as the state’s top bureaucrat has raised eyebrows due to its eerie similarity to Daniel Andrews’ playbook. The new premier is shaking up the Victorian Public Service, a move that echoes Andrews’ decision after the 2014 election.

In both cases, the outgoing premier left behind a legacy that will take time to undo. Andrews’ sudden termination of Andrew Tongue as Department of Premier and Cabinet secretary was replaced with Chris Eccles, seen at the time as a bold stroke but now as a harbinger of what’s to come.

The question on everyone’s mind is: what does this mean for Victoria? Will Carroll follow in Andrews’ footsteps by centralizing power and creating an unelected bureaucracy that wields significant influence over policy-making? Or will he chart a new course, balancing the need for experienced leadership with accountability?

Barrett’s appointment has deepened the pool of talent available to Carroll as he navigates pressing challenges. With an exodus of MPs with extensive ministerial experience, the new premier needs all the help he can get to fill the void left by Jacinta Allan, Lily D’Ambrosio, and Harriet Shing.

The changes in the Victorian Public Service are more than just a minor cabinet reshuffle; they signal a broader reallocation of portfolios. Key policy areas like health, education, energy, and climate change will need new ministers to take the reins. Speculation is rife about potential replacements for Sonya Kilkenny as finance minister, with Colin Brooks emerging as a likely contender.

Barrett’s background in international climate policy and his stint as Australian ambassador to the OECD will undoubtedly serve him well in navigating relationships between Canberra and Victoria. However, some observers are skeptical about Barrett’s appointment, citing concerns about Moule’s handling of the pandemic and his perceived closeness to Andrews and Allan.

Veteran Liberal MP David Davis has questioned Moule’s handling of the pandemic, implying that he was too beholden to Andrews and Allan. While this is a matter for debate, it highlights the challenge facing Carroll as he tries to build trust with his new team.

The Victorian Public Service will play a critical role in shaping the state’s future under Carroll’s leadership. The question is whether he will follow in Andrews’ footsteps or forge his own path. As the new premier settles into his role, one thing is clear: the coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the direction of Victoria.

Carroll’s frontbench line-up is expected to be announced on Monday, and the stakes are high. Will he surround himself with people who share his vision or opt for tried-and-true bureaucrats? The world will be watching as this drama unfolds.

As Carroll takes the reins, he must balance continuity with change. He has inherited an institution that has shaped Victoria’s development over decades. Will he succeed where his predecessor failed? Only history will tell.