Council
15 October, 2025
New appointment for Riordan
MEMBER for Polwarth Richard Riordan has welcomed the opportunity to expand his role in the Victorian Opposition following last week’s Shadow Cabinet reshuffle, which saw him appointed as the Shadow Minister for Tourism, Sport, Events and Hospitality.
Mr Riordan, who represents one of Victoria’s most iconic and diverse tourism regions – stretching from the Great Ocean Road to the Otways and inland to vibrant farming communities – said the new portfolio gives him an enhanced platform to champion the industries which are central to the south west’s prosperity.
“Tourism and events are the lifeblood of our regional economy,” he said.
“This portfolio will allow me to speak up more directly for the communities and businesses of the south west that depend on these sectors, ensuring they have a voice at the highest levels.
“From international visitors on the Great Ocean Road to grassroots sporting clubs in our small towns, I want to ensure our region doesn’t just recover – it thrives.
“This reshuffle brings fresh energy and a renewed focus on the areas Victorians care most about – jobs, cost of living, regional growth and quality of life.”
As part of the Shadow Cabinet, Mr Riordan will now lead the Opposition’s response to the challenges and opportunities facing Victoria’s tourism, sport and hospitality industries – sectors which have faced significant disruption in recent years but are showing strong signs of growth and recovery, particularly in regional areas.
Mr Riordan said his new responsibilities align directly with his long-standing advocacy for the south west, and he sees this appointment as a natural extension of the work he’s already doing.
The south west is home to major events like the Port Fairy Folk Festival, Twelve Apostles tourism and growing regional hospitality ventures.
Mr Riordan said his focus will be on cutting red tape, improving infrastructure and supporting the events calendar which brings people and jobs to the region.
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