By Luke Voogt
Geelong MP Richard Marles became Labor’s deputy federal leader following a party caucus on Thursday
The Member for Corio pledged to hold the Morrison Liberal Government to account following its upset election victory earlier this month.
“I recognise many people across our movement are still reeling from the election,” he said.
“As a party, we need to reconnect with those who have traditionally and those who ought to be voting for Labor.
“That role falls on all of us and in the weeks, months and years ahead we will work together to make sure our policy agenda and political approach can deliver that.”
Mr Marles will serve under new opposition leader Anthony Albanese, who ran for the position unopposed.
“Anthony is a living example of the very best of what the Labor Party represents,” he said.
“His personal story, his values, his commitment to fighting for a more equal and prosperous Australia will serve as a beacon for our party.”
Mr Marles described the position as a “tremendous honour” and pledged to listen to the party’s base.
“I am grateful to my colleagues for giving me the opportunity to hold such a valued role within our party.”
Mr Marles took the position unopposed due to Labor Party protocols ruling out NSW MPs Tony Burke and Chris Bowen.
Mr Albanese is from Labor’s left faction and his seat is in NSW, meaning the party’s new deputy leader needed to come from its right faction and different state.
Queensland MP Jim Chalmers reportedly considered a leadership tilt but did not nominate for leader or deputy leader.
Victorian MP Clare O’Neil nominated for the deputy role but did not receive enough support to continue her run, clearing the road for Mr Marles.
The 51-year-old former solicitor and union official,defeated sitting member Gavan O’Connor in the preselection for Corio in 2007.
After his election he served as Trade Minister under then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in 2013.
He was Labor’s immigration spokesperson from 2013 to 2016 before becoming defence spokesperson for previous party leader Bill Shorten.
Mr Marles paid tribute to Bill Shorten and previous deputy leader Tanya Plibersek.
