Melton MP Steve McGhie will not seek re-election next year as he transitions to retirement.
Stepping away from his role as Melton MP next year, Mr McGhie told Star Weekly that he felt it was time.
“I’m 67 in December – I think it’s time for a fresh face and someone who can continue the growth in Melton and continue on infrastructure builds and what Melton needs,” said Mr McGhie, who was first elected to the seat in 2018.
Reflecting on the highlights of his time as a member of parliament, he nominated the Melton Hospital project, new schools across the electorate, and “upgrading most of the schools, all bar two, in Melton”.
“Just working with the local community groups – the sporting clubs … the community in general, it’s just been fantastic and they’ve supported me really well,” he said.
“I think one of the biggest achievements was completely renewing Exford Primary School … also, the level crossing removals and the new Melton Station … it was something that I didn’t think was on the agenda.”
Mr McGhie said that with 14 months remaining in his role, there is “a lot to deliver“.
He said post-MP life will include spending some time caravanning and travelling with his wife, Janet, and “enjoying the rest of our lives”.
“I just want to thank the Melton community for supporting me, and I hope they continue that support of whoever the new member will be,” Mr McGhie said.
He said that he will remain as cabinet secretary for as long as premier Jacinta Allan would like him to and is happy to step back and let someone else take the role if need be.
In a statement premier Jacinta Allan said Mr McGhie had “a long and distinguished record of serving communities in the western suburbs, long before he entered our parliament.“
“I want to thank him for his exceptional record of service: as a paramedic, a union leader, and as my parliamentary colleague. I wish Steve and his family all best for the future.“
