Jacinta Allan Steps Down as Victoria’s Premier, Backs Smooth Leadership Transition

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has announced her resignation as Premier and Leader of the Victorian Labor Party, saying she is stepping aside to provide stability for the state and the party ahead of the November state election.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Allan described the decision as difficult but necessary, saying it was “the right thing” for the Labor Party and the people of Victoria.

She said she had considered contesting a leadership ballot and believed she could have retained the leadership. However, she concluded that a prolonged leadership contest would create uncertainty and divert attention from governing.

“I have made the difficult decision to step aside as leader of the Labor Party and Premier of Victoria.”

Allan also pledged her full support to Deputy Premier Ben Carroll, saying he would have her “congratulations and unqualified support” if chosen as the party’s next leader.

Reflecting on her time in office, Allan said serving as Victoria’s Premier had been “the honour of my life.” She noted she leaves office after 1,036 days in the role and reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for working families.

“Whatever I do next, I’ll still be fighting for working people.”

Following her resignation, the Victorian Labor caucus elected Ben Carroll as its new leader, clearing the way for him to become Victoria’s 50th Premier.

The leadership change comes just months before Victorians are due to vote in the state election scheduled for 28 November 2026, with Labor seeking another term in government.

Source: Statement by Premier Jacinta Allan, 28 July 2026.