 Returning to Victoria he was elected for Portland in 1880, and held this seat for 14 years.He made a most effective speech on the reform bill brought in by James Service in 1880, but during the following stormy years there was little opportunity for a man of Wrixon's moderate views to become prominent.In February 1886, however, when the Gillies ministry was formed, he was given the portfolio of Attorney-General and showed great ability in piloting bills through the house.