I have advised the Leader of the Victorian National Party, Danny O’Brien that I will not be re-contesting the seat of Shepparton at the upcoming Victorian State Election.
It has been an absolute privilege, honour and joy to be a National Party member in State Parliament for the seat of Shepparton, and to represent and serve my community, something I will be forever proud and grateful for.
I have committed more than 10 years to public service including six years in Local Government. It has always been about serving my community, advocating for our region, and ensuring that people have the care and support they deserve and need.
The time has come for me to slow down, spend more time with my family, and some much-needed self-care.
It has been an incredible journey, and I am proud that I was able to secure some really important things for our region including specialised housing for the homeless with wrap around support services – a model that is a first for regional Victoria and is due to be finished this year.
Goulburn Valley Health’s staff accommodation, the Shepparton Youth Prevention and Recovery Centre, the redevelopment of Numurkah’s Pioneer Memorial Lodge Aged Care Facility and the Wilmot Road, Kialla West and Numurkah Early Learning Parenting Centres to name a few.
But the frustration remains with the shortfall of investment into regional Victoria under the current Victorian State Government. It shouldn’t matter who is the government of the day, hospitals should be completed and properly invested so that they can provide the healthcare services communities need.
We also desperately need more housing; everyone deserves to have a roof over their head and a place to call home. It has been incredibly distressing to see so much cost-of-living pressures impacting households and cuts to critical services.
I wish to thank all of my National Party colleagues who have given me support and encouragement along the way, my loyal and supportive local National Party members, the team at Head Office, and deep gratitude to my dedicated staff Melissa, Jack, Safa and Nancy who have worked so incredibly hard and have supported me and our constituents.
And also, my family, friends and my dedicated husband Brendan who has been with me every step of the way.
To my community thank you for your belief in me for your support.
I will continue to support the community in any way that I can. That won’t change.
Kim O’Keeffe
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District
