WA Mines and Petroleum Minister resigns

Western Australian Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston will step down from Cabinet and won’t seek re-election in the 2025 state election.

He will serve the remainder of his term as the member for Cannington, a seat he has held since 2008, so a by-election won’t need to be held.

However, Johnston – who is also currently the Minister for Energy, Hydrogen Industry, and Industrial Relations ­– will step down from Cabinet next week, after acting as the Mines and Petroleum Minister since 2017.

“In 2008 I promised to work for our community, and I believe that I have been doing that for 15 years,” Johnston said. “I am pleased that I have been able to help people in Cannington to solve problems in their lives and in our community.”

He has previously served as Minister for Commerce, Electoral Affairs, Asian Engagement, and Corrective Services.

Johnston said he has been serving the Labor Party in a full-time role for more than 27 years.

“I think that is a long time for anyone, and certainly long enough for me,” he said.

WA Premier Roger Cook said Johnston “leaves a significant legacy of reform” in the state.

“He has successfully guided WA’s energy system on its biggest transformation in decades, putting us on the path to net-zero while keeping our economy strong and supporting local workers,” he said.

“He has always understood the essential role of a strong resources sector in the livelihoods of everyday Western Australians, and as Mines and Petroleum Minister, has helped to take the industry to new heights.

“I thank Bill for his great contribution to WA and to his community.”

Cook will call a special meeting of the Labor Caucus on December 7 to elect a new Cabinet Minister.

Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.