Overnight I became the first Premier in Australia to be blacklisted by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

It means I cannot visit Russia.

While travelling to Russia wasn’t on my bucket list, it appears this decision has been made in response to my government’s strong stance in standing up for Ukraine.

This includes:

Legislating to ban State Government investment in Russian assets
The government passed laws which gave the government the power to divest $60 million worth of South Australian workers’ super held in Russian assets by Funds SA. The changes ended State Government funds and the superannuation of the state’s public sector workers being invested in Russian assets.

Sending medical equipment to Ukraine
The government sent five pallets of medical supplies to Ukraine to support local hospitals and health care workers to provide emergency care to thousands of wounded civilians. Items included laryngeal masks, first aid and wound dressings and pulse oximeters.

Welcoming Ukrainian refugees and advocating for more
I have stated as Premier I will do everything I can to support Ukrainian refugees resettle in South Australia. I have also used my platform as Premier to call for Australia to accept even more refugees fleeing the war.

Inviting Ukrainian Ambassador to address Cabinet
His Excellency Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Australia addressed State Cabinet last month.

Vladimir Putin, I won’t be bullied.

The South Australian Government won’t be bullied.

And I will continue to stand up for democracy.