The Politics of Position: A Closer Look at Victoria's New Cabinet Secretary The recent announcement that Chris Barrett will replace Jeremi Moule as secretary of the Department of Premier and Cabinet has sparked speculation about the motivations behind Premier Ben Carroll's decision.
On the surface, this appears to be a straightforward case of bureaucratic reshuffling, but scratch beneath the surface and it reveals a complex web of allegiances, expertise, and state priorities.
A Cycle of Loyalists The departure of Jeremi Moule, who has been at the helm since November 2020, marks the latest chapter in a long standing tradition of Victoria's premiers favoring loyalists over seasoned administrators.