Tasmanian Premier, Jeremy Rockliff, today announced changes to his Cabinet, saying the move will ensure delivery of the Government’s long term plan.
“As I have already outlined, I will be handing over the reins of health to a very capable member of my team and taking an increased focus on driving Tasmania’s economic growth and creating more jobs,” the Premier said.
Mr Rockliff said he will take on the portfolios for State Development, Trade and the Antarctic as part of the Cabinet reschuffle.
“I will also be the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality. And, as I’ve previously mentioned, I will remain the Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing.”
“In making these changes, I want to send a strong message about the priorities of the Government I lead – my Liberal Government backs economic growth and job creation.
“A confident and strong economy means we will have the resources to invest in things like cost of living relief, health and housing – making our state the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
He said that after nine years of Liberal Government, Tasmania’s economy was “leading the pack”.
“However, Tasmania is not immune to the global and domestic economic headwinds,” he said.
“The triple threat of inflation, rising interest rates and a slowdown in the national economy is causing uncertainty and threatening both business and consumer confidence.
“That’s why I have decided now is the time that I should take on State Development, with direct responsibility for the Department of State Growth and key economic drivers within it, in particular business development.”
The Premier said Tasmanian businesses need confidence, “Tasmanians need certainty, and that’s what I’m delivering with this and the other changes I have announced over the past week”.
“In addition, I am bringing Tourism and Hospitality back together, and under a Premier again. Tourism and hospitality are major economic powerhouses, especially in our regions. Visitors are travelling to our state in record numbers, and my Government is focussed on seizing the opportunities this brings.
“I will also be adding the Antarctic to my focus. We’re not only the gateway to the Antarctic, we are leaders in science, research, logistics and services capabilities. It was clear when I visited Japan and the Republic of Korea this year that there is enormous potential to grow our Antarctic industry, and further strengthen our economy.”
Mr Rockliff also announced that Minister Guy Barnett will be Tasmania’s new Minister for Health.
Minister Barnett has represented Tasmanians at the Federal and State level now for almost two decades.
“Minister Barnett has been a passionate advocate in his past and current Ministries, and I believe he will bring that same passion and drive to Health,” the Premier said.
“Minister Barnett is a Diabetes Australia Ambassador, a commitment that is driven by his own experience with Type 1 diabetes.
“In 2006, he established with Diabetes Tasmania the Pollie Pedal and has cycled every year to raise awareness and funds for Tasmanians with diabetes and their families. Minister Barnett is also a former Ambassador for Motor Neurone Disease Australia.”
The Premier said he had every confidence that Tasmania’s health care system was in the very best of hands.
“And we will continue to see investment, innovation and improved health outcomes for Tasmanians under Minister Barnett’s leadership,” he said.
Local Government Minister, Nic Street, will take on additional responsibilities, including Minister for Housing and Construction. He will also be the Minister for Stadia and Events.
Minister Jo Palmer will take on the Community Services and Development portfolio, while Minister Madeleine Ogilvie will be the Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence, with Minister Felix Ellis to take over the Racing portfolio.
“I’m very grateful to have such a strong team of talented and passionate Ministers,” said Mr Rockliff.
“The changes I announced today will ensure our Government can continue to deliver on our long term plan, and deliver what matters most to all Tasmanians.”
Click to view Cabinet responsibilities here.
