Martin Pakula

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS

Pakula’s work in multiple Australian sectors and industries has focused on economic development and sought to enhance Victoria's global reputation as a hub for major events. During his tenure as a member of the Victorian government, Pakula advocated for enhanced tourism, sport, events, trade, precinct and racing initiatives within the state.  

Elsewhere, Pakula also served as a Major Projects Advisor for the AFL, where he advised on large-scale projects impacting Australia’s major sporting landscape. Additionally, Pakula was instrumental in shaping the strategic direction for iconic events like the Australian Grand Prix. 

EMPLOYMENT

Pakula began his career in 1993 as a Solicitor for Macpherson Kelley, a role which he held for a year before moving on to NUW – with whom he would eventually spend 13 years. Initially joining as Organiser and Industrial Officer, Pakula was promoted to Assistant State Secretary at the company after almost seven years. Four years later, he moved up again to the position of State Secretary – a role he would hold for two additional years.  

Following on from this, Pakula joined the Victoria Government as Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Roads and Ports. After two years in this position, he went on to become the Minister for Industry and Trade, Industrial Relations and Public Transport.  

Next, he spent four years as a Shadow Attorney General and Minister for Gaming and Racing for Victorian Labour, before moving back to the Victorian Government as Attorney General and Minister for Racing.  

After four years, Pakula became the Minister for Jobs, Innovation, Trade Tourism, Major Events, Sport and Racing – moving on again a year later to become Minister for Industry Support & Recovery, Tourism, Sport Major Events, Trade, Precincts and Racing. His tenure marked a transformative period for Victoria's tourism industry, leveraging major events to boost the state's economy.  

In the private sector, Pakula’s experience extends to strategic advisory roles, including his work with Helloworld Travel Limited and Sport Australia Hall of Fame, where he provided governance and insight into business and nonprofit ventures. 

Pakula’s leadership is also demonstrated in his part-time roles with a range of organisations, where he applies his strategic and governance expertise to drive innovation. He has been an Advisory Board Member for Grande Experiences and a Non-Executive Director at both the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and Helloworld Travel Limited. 

As of July 2025, Martin Pakula is the acting Chair of Crown Melbourne, also joining the Board of Crown Melbourne in early May 2025. Bringing an extensive background in public service and leadership roles in major organisations, Pakula is well-positioned to guide Crown Melbourne into its next phase of growth and transformation. 

Regarding his new role, Pakula said: 

“I am delighted to accept the role of Chair at Crown Melbourne and to play a role in its exciting future. Crown is an iconic business that is a critical part of Victoria’s economy, tourism and entertainment industry.” Martin Pakula