STATEMENT – MINISTERIAL CHANGES

As Deputy Leader of The Nationals, I look forward to working with the new members of our ministerial team, as announced by the Deputy Prime Minister this afternoon.

 

As a fellow Victorian, Darren Chester’s return to the Ministry as Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Minister for Defence Personnel and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on the Centenary of ANZAC will bring a wealth of experience to the role. He will be as a strong advocate for Australia’s veterans and the brave men and women serving our nation in the defence force.

 

I also congratulate Mark Coulton on his appointment as Assistant Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment. Mark is a fighter for rural and regional Australia, and appreciates the importance of opening new markets for our primary producers, education institutions and service industries. Nobody understands the importance of trade like our farmers, and Mark’s experience on the land will bring a strong rural voice to such a cornerstone portfolio.

 

I welcome Keith Pitt’s return to the Ministry as Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister. Keith has a strong track record delivering for his constituents and is a champion for rural and regional Australia.

 

Together, our ministerial line up will continue The Nationals’ commitment to deliver real outcomes for regional Australia, as we have for the last 98 years.