John Pandazopoulos

John Pandazopoulos (born 21 July 1963) is a Victorian politician. He was a Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, representing the electorate of Dandenong for the Labor Party. During the Bracks Government, he was a member of Cabinet, serving as Minister for Major Projects, Employment, Tourism, Gaming and Racing. He was also Minister assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs.

Early life Pandazopoulos was born in Melbourne in 1963. He grew up in the outer suburb of Doveton, where he attended Doveton High School. He gained admission to Monash University in 1982, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts. While at university, he was active in student politics, serving as Secretary of the Monash Student Association as well as having an active role in NUGAS. One of his contemporaries in student politics was John Lenders, who was Treasurer of Victoria.

Upon graduating, Pandazopoulos began work as an organiser with the Finance Sector Union. He was elected to the City of Berwick Council in 1987, and was Mayor from 1990–1991.

Political career At age 29, Pandazopoulos was elected to the Victorian Parliament as Member for Dandenong.