Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he will continue to serve the interests of regional Australians after resigning from the Coalition Shadow Ministry.
Mr Chester told Opposition Leader Sussan Ley it was with ‘a heavy heart’ that he resigned from the position of Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs after The Nationals voted against the flawed Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill.
“The shadow portfolio responsibility of protecting the interests of Australian veterans and their families was a position that I held dearly due to my enduring respect for Australian Defence Force personnel,” Mr Chester said.
“But given the circumstances where the Liberal leader was demanding three National Party Senators resign from their positions for voting against the Bill, I joined with my colleagues in tendering my resignation.”
Mr Chester said the decision would have no impact on his role as Member for Gippsland.
“I remain absolutely committed to representing the interests of Gippslanders, and all regional Australians in Federal Parliament,” he said.
“The Prime Minister is treating regional people with contempt, and this week’s appalling abuse of Parliamentary process on a matter of national security just strengthens my determination to get rid of this bad government.
“Now more than ever, regional Australia needs strong and experienced representation in Federal Parliament because the Labor-Greens are combining to undermine our way of life, and our livelihoods.
“The Nationals are the only party which is 100 per cent focused on the needs of regional communities, and we will continue to fight for a fair share of funding for critical services and infrastructure, along with policies which support rural and regional industries and our families.”
