Labor MP Dean Winter is officially the new head of Tasmania’s opposition after being elected unopposed to lead the state Labor Party.
Winter replaces Rebecca White, who will remain an MP, after she decided not to re-contest her position following three consecutive election losses.
The 38-year-old former Kingborough Mayor on Wednesday said he was “honoured” to have been endorsed as leader.
“As I said when I first put my hand up, a Labor Party I lead will stand first and foremost for creating and maintaining good, well paid, safe and secure jobs to help Tasmanian families and the Tasmanian economy,” he said.
“By focussing on jobs, a Labor Party I lead will support Tasmanian industry and small business … families to manage the cost of living … the workers who keep our essential public services going.”
“I am grateful to my colleagues for trusting me with this opportunity and I look forward to continue working with them towards our vision for a better Tasmania.”
Anita Dow will stay on as Deputy Leader.
Tasmania is the only Australian state where Labor does not hold power, with the Liberals in control since 2014.
