WA Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston resigns

After seven years in the role, WA Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston is stepping down from Cabinet and will not contest the 2025 State Election.

Minister Johnston will see out the remainder of his term as the Member for Cannington, a position he has been in since 2008.

“I have been very proud to work for the Cannington community over the last 15 years, and I look forward to serving them until the next election,” he said.

“The Cannington community have always had my first loyalty as their representative in Parliament, and it is a tremendous privilege to represent this vibrant community.” 

As well as the Member for Cannington, Mr Johnston served as Minister for Mines and Petroleum since 2017, overseeing record resources industry exports. As Minister for Energy since 2018, he steered WA’s transition to renewable energy — delivering the State’s biggest ever investments into renewable energy generation and storage.

Mr Johnston held the Industrial Relations portfolio for the most part of six years, delivering reforms for workers across WA, including driving a nation-leading overhaul of the State’s work health and safety regime.

He also served as Minister for Corrective Services, Electoral Affairs, Commerce, Asian Engagement and Hydrogen.

WA Premier Roger Cook thanked Minister Johnston for his work.

“Bill has been a giant part of our party and our movement for more than two decades. He leaves a significant legacy of reform in our state,” he said.

“Bill has also never shied away from a challenge, never hesitating to take on some of Government’s most challenging portfolios as part of his commitment to the WA community.

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

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