Victorian Premier Ben Carroll trims cabinet and reviews work‑from‑home bill

New Victorian Premier Ben Carroll announced a reduction of the state cabinet to 20 members, filling only one of three vacancies ahead of the November election. The reshaped ministry will comprise 11 women and nine men, with Tim Richardson promoted to cabinet and Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams expected to take the education portfolio. Former premier Jacinta Allan and her allies have left the cabinet and will not seek re‑election.

Carroll is also reconsidering the state’s planned work‑from‑home legislation. The bill, which would give employees a right to work from home two days a week, currently lacks exemptions for small businesses. After pressure from the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, Carroll is said to be consulting business groups about carving out firms with fewer than 50 employees, citing concerns over administrative costs and technology expenses.