Roger Cook — Premier
At a glance
| Tracker status | Current — Premier since 8 Jun 2023; re-elected 2025 |
| Export role | WA face of Oct 2024 lobster resumption; Back of Boat era; opposed federal live sheep 2028 ban cost (~$123m/yr, 400 jobs) |
| Electorate | Kwinana — MLA since 2008 |
| Portfolios | Premier; State Development, Trade and Investment, Economic Diversification |
- WA was pre-ban China lobster volume leader (>5,500 t, >$448.7m 2018–19) — [inferred] visibility rivalry with Malinauskas.
Quick facts
- Party / faction: ALP / Right (AMWU-aligned bloc)
- Predecessor: Mark McGowan (resigned May 2023)
- Deputy: Rita Saffioti (Treasurer)
- Background: Murdoch/Curtin; first NUS president; Aboriginal land council CEO; health minister through COVID; deputy 2017–2023
Export & agriculture role (tracker)
| Issue | Role | Verified | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western rock lobster | Oct 2024 welcome resumption with Punch | Media statement | WA lobster |
| Live sheep ban | Criticised federal package; sought more transition $ | ABC May 2024 | WA meat |
| Live cattle | State interest via northern WA / Fremantle chains | Indirect | Federal meat |
| State development | Trade and investment portfolio | Ongoing | WA hub |
Portfolio & career
| Period | Position |
|---|---|
| 2023– | 31st Premier |
| 2017–2023 | Deputy Premier; Health; State Development |
| 2008– | MLA Kwinana |
Allies & rivals
- Key allies: Albanese; Farrell; Jackie Jarvis
- Known rivals: Malinauskas — inferred lobster credit competition; WA Libs/Nats on sheep
Chronology (export-related)
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-10-10 | Welcomes China lobster resumption | Verified — WA Gov |
| 2024-05 | Live sheep ban — cost estimate & more $ ask | Verified — ABC |
| 2023-06-08 | Sworn premier | McGowan resignation |
| 2025 | State election win | Own mandate |
Interests register
- WA Parliament — guide
Links
- WA hub · WA Gov — Cook · Crustacean · Meat