Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a new cabinet following Labor’s significant electoral victory. The reshuffle has seen notable changes, including Michelle Rowland moving from the communications portfolio to take over as attorney-general, succeeding the ousted Mark Dreyfus. Tanya Plibersek has transitioned from her role in the environment to become the minister for social services, with Murray Watt stepping into her previous position.
Anika Wells, who was granted a cabinet promotion prior to the election, will now manage both communications and sport. Health Minister Mark Butler will also oversee the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), adding to his responsibilities.
The reshuffle follows the recent removal of Dreyfus and Ed Husic from their ministerial positions, which has been attributed to internal manoeuvring by Labor’s Right faction. Husic has publicly condemned his dismissal, referring to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, who leads the Victorian Right faction, as a “factional assassin.” He voiced his disappointment, suggesting that the role of a deputy prime minister should embody statesmanship rather than factional interests.
In further changes, Sam Rae has been appointed as the new minister for aged care, while Senator Tim Ayres takes over Dreyfus’ former portfolio in industry and science. The revamped cabinet is set to be sworn in tomorrow morning, and these shifts reflect a significant restructuring aimed at strengthening the government’s leadership in key areas.