Shelley Hancock MP to stand down at next election

MsHancock, who was responsible for Wingecarribee Council going into administration, released a statement on Saturday, December 18, announcing her departure.

"The commitment it takes to serve as a minister is significant," Ms Hancock said.

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"Many know of my challenging family circumstances and it is due to these that I informed the Premier that I could not fully commit to continuing to serve as a Minister, and I have asked him not to reappoint me to Cabinet.

"Also, a significant challenge for me has been the departure of Gladys Berejiklian.

"Her resignation is a loss for New South Wales and a personal loss for me, and something that I have found difficult to move past.

"It has however been highly rewarding working with the local government sector over the past three years.

"Together we have achieved significant reform to the state's rating system, encouraged greater participation of women in our local councils, rewrote the rules for how we manage discarded property, delivered superannuation to councillors, secured the largest capital investment for our state's animal shelters, and secured millions for councils to assist with bushfires, floods and the pandemic - all with the full support of local government stakeholders, something not experienced by every minister in this portfolio.

"I also wanted to serve as minister for local government until the local government elections, and I am pleased that they have been successfully held in such challenging times.

"I wish all new mayors and councillors the very best of luck in their roles.

"Now is the opportunity for the Premier to deliver a new team to take to the March 2023 State Election and it is important that women are central to the new Cabinet.

"It is often difficult being the only woman in the room, or one of a handful, therefore it is essential that women make up a larger part of the Cabinet to provide our views and perspectives.

"We do after all make up more than 50 per cent of the population.

"I thank my community of the south coast.

"It is truly an honour to represent the best community in the state and I will continue to do with all so my energy until March 2023."

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