Victorian Labor promotes Grigorovitch, defends ties to John Setka

The Victorian Labor caucus has voted to promote Luba Grigorovitch, Paul Edbrooke, Michaela Settle, and Paul Hamer to cabinet positions. Grigorovitch, the member for Kororoit, expressed that she has 'no regrets' about her past friendship with former CFMEU leader John Setka, despite opposition criticism labeling her appointment as 'appalling.' The caucus meeting occurred this week following the announcement that several ministers, including Mary-Anne Thomas and Danny Pearson, would not recontest in the upcoming November election and would step down from cabinet immediately.

Grigorovitch, who previously served as the first woman and youngest state secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, thanked Setka in her maiden speech in 2023, and he attended her wedding that same year. Liberal MP James Newbury, the shadow attorney general, questioned Grigorovitch's suitability for ministerial duties due to her ties with Setka, stating, 'How could the premier, Jacinta Allan, possibly think that Luba Grigorovitch passes the character test of being a minister of this state?' In response, Premier Allan dismissed Newbury's comments as 'petty' and 'childish.' Setka resigned from the CFMEU in mid-2024 amid allegations of criminal infiltration within the union.

The promotion of Grigorovitch and her defense of her relationship with Setka may bolster her standing among union supporters, but it exposes the Labor government to scrutiny from opposition parties. The controversy surrounding Setka's past could serve as a strategic vulnerability for Premier Allan, especially as her administration faces challenges related to union influence and allegations of corruption. The reshuffle indicates a shift in Labor's strategy, potentially aiming to consolidate power within the party while navigating external pressures.

What to watch: Jacinta Allan will announce the new ministers’ portfolios, which may further clarify the government's direction amid ongoing controversies.