Finniss MP David Basham says the retirement of former Premier Steven Marshall is significant to him, as he is a dear friend and influence.

Mr Basham has reflected on Mr Marshall’s contribution and service to local people, paying respect to the former leader.

“Steven Marshall has been a household name in our state and deserves to remain a great story in our governing history,” Mr Basham says. 

“At the midpoint of the electoral cycle, Steven Marshall announced his

retirement and resigned on Tuesday 6 February 2024.

“One of the state’s longest serving Liberal Party Leaders, Mr Marshall served the people of Dunstan and South Australia tirelessly for almost 14 years in the South Australian State Parliament. 

“As Premier from 2018 to 2022 he can be particularly proud of showing great leadership in times of COVID, devastating fires and significant floods.

Mr Basham has paid tribute to the Marshall government’s investment in hospitals and developments in space, defence, manufacturing, digital economy, medical research, and renewable energy.

“The initiative of Lot Fourteen has provided a place for young entrepreneurs and the state budget was balanced for the first time in years,” he says.

“Under the Marshall Government, Finniss attracted an unprecedented $125 million funding to deliver better health and educational outcomes, improve community infrastructure, make our roads safer, boost our economy and create jobs.

“I am so proud to have worked with former Premier Steven Marshall to deliver significant projects and attract funding into the electoral seat of Finniss. 

“After many years of neglect in the region, with Steven, we delivered the new Causeway, new Goolwa Secondary School, an upgrade to the Adelaide Road between Yundi and Mt Compass, and the Torrens Road Roundabout. 

“Investment continued with sport and community clubs sharing $12 million funding, declaration of the Hindmarsh Valley National Park and funding for a new Emergency Department.

“Working with Steven was a privilege, things got done and he empowered others to make a difference.”

Mr Basham says it was an honour to be a Minister in Mr Marshall’s cabinet and he will be sorely missed from Parliament.

“Steven Marshall created change, led by example and decision, expecting everything from himself and the team around him, I thank him for his service.”

A bye-election for Mr Marshall’s former seat of Dunstan, in Adelaide’s eastern suburbs, will be held on 23 March.