Jaala Pulford, the Victorian minister for small business, resources, medical research, innovation, and jobs, has announced she will not run for reelection in the coming month.
In June 2020, Pulford took the position of newly appointed minister for innovation, health research, and the digital economy, taking Martin Pakula’s place as the previous minister for jobs, innovation, and trade.
During his tenure as minister, Pulford oversaw the funding of internet and mobile black spot services in addition to developing the state’s five-year digital strategy and a $64 million mid-career technology training programme.
Pulford claimed in a statement that she has informed Premier Daniel Andrews of her decision “not to run again in the 2022 state election.”
Until a new administration is formed, Pulford will continue to manage her Cabinet portfolios.
Although I’m aware that I’m making this choice just before a state election, Pulford added, “I’m very certain that the moment is perfect for me, and for the Government.”
“New companies emerged, and others underwent changes. Our resource and technology industries both prospered.
“In particular, accelerating the implementation of mobile services and faster internet connections through our $500 million Connecting Victoria programme to transform how we live and work throughout the state.
For her many years of service, Andrews commended Pulford and said she would “be dearly missed by many on both sides of the aisle.”
