Peter Walsh stands down as Victorian Nationals leader, replaced by Danny O’Brien

Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh has stood down and will be replaced by shadow roads minister Danny O’Brien.

Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh has stood down after a decade in the job. Picture: Andy Rogers

Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien is the new leader of the Victorian National Party, elected unopposed to replace Peter Walsh.

The 70-year-old has been in parliament since 2002 and was a minister in the Baillieu and Napthine governments.

It is likely Mr Walsh will retire as the member for Murray Plains at the next election, although no official statement has been made on his parliamentary future yet.

Lowan MP Emma Kealy will continue as deputy leader.

A former journalist, Mr O’Brien is the 11th leader of the Victorian National Party since its inception as the Victorian Farmers Union during World War I.

The 50-year-old has previously served as chief of staff to former Victorian Nats leader Peter Ryan as well as an advisor to former deputy PM Mark Vaile.

Danny O’Brien will be the new leader.

“It is the greatest honour to have been elected as Leader of The Nationals,” Mr O’Brien said.

“For over 100 years, The Nationals have served the interests of rural and regional Victoria That will not change.

“It remains our singular focus as the only party solely dedicated to serving the interests of the 25 per cent of the population who live outside the metropolitan area.

“I entered politics because I have always believed rural and regional people get a raw deal. As leader of our great party, I will fight every day for country people to get a fair go.

Ms Kealy also welcomed her continued role as deputy leader in an official statement.

“I look forward to continuing my role in leadership, working with Danny, our MPs and all our members and supporters who are fighting together for a fair deal for regional Victorians,” the Lowan MP said.