I am saddened to learn of the passing of the Member for Eastern Victoria, the Hon Jane Garrett MP, after a long battle with cancer.
On behalf of the Victorian Government and the Parliamentary Labor Party, I offer our deep condolences to Jane’s family, friends and colleagues – and all those who knew and loved her.
I cannot imagine the grief her family, particularly her three children, must be feeling at this incredibly difficult time – my thoughts are with them.
Jane was a passionate advocate for the rights of working people and spent her career fighting for safer, secure jobs.
Her commitment to education, equality and social justice for all was clear.
Jane was elected as the Member for Brunswick in 2010 and served as a parliamentary secretary and Shadow Cabinet Secretary. When Labor returned to government in 2014, she joined the Cabinet as Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation and Minister for Emergency Services.
In 2018, Jane was elected as a Member for Eastern Victoria in the Legislative Council and appointed as Parliamentary Secretary for Jobs – roles she undertook until her illness forced her to take a leave of absence.
Prior to her service in the Victorian Parliament, Jane worked as an industrial relations and discrimination lawyer and as a senior adviser to former Premier Steve Bracks. She was also elected by her community as a Councillor and then as Mayor of the City of Yarra.
Jane lived a life of service to the labour movement, to the Labor party, and to our state.
I hope Jane’s family accept a State Funeral as a fitting way to mark her significant contribution to Victoria.
Vale Jane Garrett.
