Victoria’s new leader is promising to deliver a “new direction” after unveiling his first ministry.
Government MPs were sworn into their roles on Tuesday, August 4th, joining what Ben Carroll described as a “reduced” cabinet.
“This is a simple measure I can make right now to save taxpayers money,” Mr Carroll said in a statement.
“Because every dollar my government spends will be treated with respect and only where it delivers the greatest value for Victorians.”
He also described his team as “experienced and united, focused on getting things done”.
A number of MPs have swapped or lost their portfolios in the new-look frontbench, the first under Ben Carroll’s tenure and fifth since Labor took office in 2014.
Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes arguably counts among the biggest losers, moving from being Treasurer to Minister for Energy and Resources, the State Electricity Commission, Climate Action and the Environment – roles previously held by retiring MP Lily D’Ambrosio.
Colin Brooks now handles the Treasury portfolio, having previously been Minister for Skills and TAFE, Defence Industry, and Industry and Advanced Manufacturing.
Meantime, Michaela Settle – the Ballarat-based Member for Eureka and an ally of former Premier Jacinta Allan – has kept her position of Minister for Agriculture and newly-titled Minister for Rural and Regional Development, while also becoming Minister for Water.
While some are welcoming the fresh, downsized cabinet, Victorian National Party leader Danny O’Brien is lamenting the lack of non-metro Ministers.
“Ben Carroll’s first move as Premier is to reduce the number of regional MPs in Cabinet and leave regional Victoria with next to no voice at the table – there are now just two regional Ministers out of a Cabinet of 20,” Mr O’Brien said.
“A smaller Cabinet with less regional representation is not the reset regional Victorians are crying out for.”
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