STATEMENT ON ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW MINISTRY

The announcement of new ministerial appointments today demonstrates The Nationals’ ongoing commitment to delivering for regional Australians.

The team is the right mix of experience and new talent enabling the Liberal and Nationals Government to keep providing the services our regional communities need and deserve.

The Hon David Littleproud MP will become the Minister for Agriculture building on his work in the Drought and Emergency Management portfolios.

The Hon Darren Chester MP will continue his important work in the significant portfolios of Veterans Affairs and Defence Personnel with his elevation to Cabinet. For the first time since 1993 the Minister for Veterans Affairs will be a Cabinet Minister, reflecting the Government’s commitment to our Veterans.

The Hon Keith Pitt MP will enter Cabinet as the Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia. Keith brings a wealth of experience to this critical portfolio.

The Hon Mark Coulton MP will become the Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government.

The Hon Andrew Gee MP will enter the outer Ministry as Minister for Regional Education, Decentralisation and the Minister Assisting the Minister for Trade and Investment.

The Hon Michelle Landry MP will continue in her role as the Assistant Minister for Children and Families and adds the new responsibility of Assistant Minister for Northern Australia.

Mr Kevin Hogan MP will assist me in my duties as Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister.

This team has a strong focus on representing the interests of regional and rural communities across Australia.

These new ministerial arrangements will be presented to the Governor-General at a ceremony at Government House later today.