Tom Stephens’ decision to step aside from State politics to fill the void left by the sudden death of Labor candidate for the Federal seat of Kalgoorlie Kevin Richards, has resulted in the promotion of two State fringe players.
Ljiljanna Ravlich enters State Cabinet as Minister for Local Government and Regional Development; Heritage; the Kimberley; Pilbara; Gascoyne; and Goldfields-Esperence.
These were the same portfolios held by Mr Stephens.
She is the first woman born in a non-English speaking country to be elected to the WA Parliament.
Ms Ravlich’s elevation to cabinet also clears the way for Collie MLA Mick Murray to ascend to Parliamentary Secretary status.
He takes on the role of Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Tourism; Small Business; Sport and Recreation; Peel and the South-West.