09/08/2026
The retiring MP for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas, has paid a glowing tribute to former Premier Jacinta Allan, praising her leadership on women’s healthcare and the expansion of abortion services.
Mary-Anne shared a photograph of the pair outside Kyneton Hospital, taken in June 2024 when they announced the establishment of a sexual and reproductive health hub in Kyneton.
“I love this photo,” revealed Mary-Anne.
“It’s from June 2024, and it was the day Jacinta Allan, or JA as we all call her, joined me to announce the establishment of a sexual and reproductive health hub in Kyneton.”
“JA fought to transform women’s healthcare delivery here in Victoria,” she added.
Mary-Anne said Labor had tackled health issues that had previously been “ignored, dismissed or misdiagnosed”, highlighting endometriosis, period pain, incontinence, prolapse, and menopause.
She also singled out Jacinta’s commitment to expanding abortion access, alongside contraception, public fertility services and dedicated women’s health clinics.
“And now because of JA’s commitment we have free women’s health clinics and expanded access to abortion care, easier access to contraception, and public fertility care,” Mary-Anne said.
Jacinta had also spoken publicly about her own experience with endometriosis, something Mary-Anne praised as part of her efforts to bring greater attention to women’s health.
The post finished on a personal note, with Mary-Anne thanking her former leader after serving alongside her in Cabinet and the Labor caucus.
“Thanks JA, it has been a privilege to serve in your Cabinet and as a member of the Labor caucus under your leadership.”
Mary-Anne is herself preparing to leave state politics at November’s Victorian State Election, bringing to an end more than a decade representing Macedon.
