Currently an Independent MP sitting on the crossbench, the Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward was not able to participate in yesterday’s election of Dominic Perrottet as the new Premier of NSW, despite being elected as a Liberal member.

“I have known Dominic Perrottet for 20 years and I wish him every success as our State’s 46th Premier,” says Mr Ward.

“He will have big shoes to fill and for the sake of our State, I hope he can lead New South Wales out of COVID and to more prosperous and happier times in the future.”

Mr Ward notes Mr Perrottet brings enormous experience as a lawyer, Finance Minister and Treasurer to the office of Premier.

“Whilst Dom has values that drive him, he is a pragmatist who will want to build on the legacy of those who have come before him,” says Mr Ward.

“This is a critical time for our community and our State. Our new Premier will be judged on his actions and the outcomes his government delivers.”

He says he has a good working relationship with the new Premier.

Mr Ward also welcomes the election of Paul Toole as Leader of the Nationals and Deputy Premier.

“As Minister for Regional Roads, Paul and I have worked closely on a number of important local projects including the Albion Park Rail Bypass, the Berry to Bomaderry upgrade, the new Shoalhaven River Crossing and the Jervis Bay Road interchange,” he says.

“Both Dom and Paul were previously the Deputy Leaders of their Party. Whilst both faced party room ballots, their seamless transition from deputy to leader is welcomed at a time of relative uncertainly and instability. Dom and Paul must steady the ship – and quickly.”

Mr Ward says as a local MP his focus is on working with government at all levels to get things done for our community.

“I will have no hesitation in making the views of our community very clear to the new Premier and Deputy Premier; my attitude to this Premier will be no different to all the others – our community comes first and I intend to hold this government to account on behalf of our community.

“When it comes to ensuring that Government listens to our community, I’ll allow my record to speak for itself and our community can judge accordingly.”

Mr Ward says he remains deeply saddened by the departure of his friend and former Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

“Gladys has led our State through some of the toughest times in our State’s history – no leader has ever had to contend with bushfires, floods, draught and two rounds of a global pandemic.

“Notwithstanding the seriousness of an ICAC investigation, Gladys has been a strong supporter of our community and I wish her all the best in her future.”

Mr Ward was a prominent member of the NSW Liberal Party until May, when he moved to the crossbench from his position as Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services after it emerged he was the subject of a police investigation. He denies any wrongdoing.