Sydenham MP and government services, treaty and First Peoples, prevention of family violence, and women’s minister Natalie Hutchins has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026.
In a statement published on Thursday 16 October, Ms Hutchins said after 15 years as the Sydenham MP and over a decade as a minister, “the time has come” for her to focus on her health.
“This week, I made the difficult decision not to recontest the seat of Sydenham at the next election,” Ms Hutchins said.
“I have dedicated my life’s work to improving gender equality and workers’ rights and fighting for justice alongside First Peoples.
“While I am not re-contesting the next election, my work has not quite finished and I will continue to serve as Minister for my current portfolios until 22 December, and as member for Sydenham until the 2026 election.”
Premier Jacinta Allan said Ms Hutchins’ contribution to Victoria would leave a lasting legacy,
“Born in public housing and having grown up in the western suburbs of Melbourne, she has always been a passionate advocate to create opportunities for others and has been a fierce voice for the diverse and growing communities she now represents,” Ms Allan said.
“Natalie is a feminist and a big part of her legacy will be long lasting improvements for Victorian women. She has been responsible for the rollout of free pads and tampons in public places.
“Along with her ministerial responsibilities, Natalie has been a strong local voice for families and working people in Sydenham.
“She has delivered new and upgraded schools, removed dangerous and congested level crossings, a new ambulance station at Taylors Lakes, a new car park for Watergardens station and better roads and public transport.”
Ms Hutchins was first elected to the Parliament in 2010 from the union movement, and was the first woman to be elected Assistant Secretary of the Victorian Trades Hall Council.
