Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, Luke Donnellan, resigned earlier today after admitting to paying for the memberships of Labor members as part of a branch-staking operation, during Today’s Independent Broad‑based Anti‑corruption (IBAC) inquiry.
In a statement released on Monday afternoon, Luke Donnellan admitted to breaching party rules.
“Today I called the Premier to inform him that I’m stepping down as a Minister in the Andrews Government,” the statement read.
“I accept that I have previously breached party rules while a minister.”
He continued, “But let me be very clear: I never misused public funds or resources in any way. And this has absolutely nothing to do with my staff.
“However, I don’t believe it is possible or appropriate to maintain my Ministerial responsibilities given these rule breaches. The work to support vulnerable Victorians is too important, especially during the pandemic.
“Serving as a Minister in this government has been an incredible privilege and I thank the Premier and my colleagues for that opportunity.
“I also thank my staff and all the department officials who have been working so bloody hard to support the community. You’ve been marvellous.”
