New Vic minister mourns loss of daughter

A newly promoted Victorian minister is mourning the loss of her 13-year-old daughter.

The daughter of Labor MP Jaala Pulford and Jeff Pulford died peacefully in her sleep at 5.15am on Friday, Premier Daniel Andrews said in a statement.

"On behalf of the Victorian government and the Victorian Labor Party, I send my deepest condolences to Jaala Pulford and her family on the loss of their brave young lady, Sinead," Mr Andrews said in a statement.

"Jaala and Jeff Pulford gave their hearts to their daughter and were devoted to her every need and wish.

"It is now the Pulford family's wish to mourn in private and I trust this will be respected."

Mrs Pulford was elevated to the new ministry last week after Labor's state election win, but took temporary leave from the job two days after being sworn.

Mr Andrews said Mrs Pulford's friends and colleagues in the Labor parliament and parliament were thinking and praying for her family during this difficult time.

Mr Andrews will serve as acting minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional Development until Mrs Pulford returns to her duties.