Emma Vulin, the Member for Pakenham, has advised me she will not be seeking re-election in 2026.
Helping others is a part of who Emma is - something instilled in her from a young age.
Emma worked in retail, administration and as a vet nurse, before following in her mum's footsteps to become an electorate officer - a job that showed her how governments can help people at their lowest moments.
And it was this experience that motivated her to put up her own hand to represent the community.
As a CFA volunteer she devoted herself to protecting her community and others.
As a Member of Parliament, Emma has been a passionate champion for the people of Pakenham, removing dangerous and congested level crossings and delivering two new train stations.
Emma has delivered three new schools and three new kindergartens for her community.
And as someone with a deep understanding of how much strong local health services matter, she has been a fierce advocate for the new Pakenham Community Hospital that is now under construction.
Emma is one of the bravest and strongest people I know.
She was elected to represent the seat of Pakenham in 2022 and was less than halfway through the term when she was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).
This devastating diagnosis was not the first time Emma had faced an extraordinary health challenge.
In 2016, aged only 36, she suffered a stroke and endured a long recovery.
But that experience turned her into a staunch advocate for other stroke survivors, pushing for greater awareness and accessibility.
I speak for all of Emma's parliamentary colleagues when I say I was shocked and deeply saddened by her diagnosis.
Yet Emma has responded with grit, determination and her trademark sense of humour.
She has brought our Parliament together to raise awareness and funds for Fight MND and advocated for government funding for MND Victoria.
That she would use her own experience to advocate for others comes as no surprise. Emma is a person of deep conviction, immense strength and total selflessness.
I am incredibly saddened that her health means she will not be able to stand for re-election in Pakenham next year.
But I know she will continue to serve her community for as long as she is able.
I want to send my heartfelt thanks to Emma's beautiful family - her partner, Matt, and her kids, Sienna and Sage - and everybody in her wider support network.
I wish you all the best for the future.
