Premier Jeremy Rockliff has appointed two new ministers to his Liberal government, with former federal MP Bridget Archer taking on the crucial health portfolio and Gavin Pearce stepping into primary industries.
The ministry reshuffle, announced today, sees Archer become minister for health, mental health and wellbeing, along with the Aboriginal affairs and ageing portfolios.
Pearce will oversee primary industries and water and veterans’ affairs.
“We are getting on with the job for Tasmanians,” Rockliff said. “Tasmanians have voted and we must respect the will of the people.”
Guy Barnett will stay on as deputy premier, while retaining his roles as attorney-general and minister for justice, corrections and rehabilitation. He also takes on the small business, trade and consumer affairs portfolios.
Eric Abetz has been elevated to treasurer and leader of government business. He is the inaugural minister for Macquarie Point urban renewal.
Felix Ellis will handle business, industry and resources, skills and jobs and police, fire and emergency management.
Jane Howlett takes charge of tourism, hospitality and events, racing and women and the prevention of family violence.
Nick Duigan continues as minister for energy and renewables, parks and sport. Jo Palmer has been appointed minister for education, children and youth and disability services.
Kerry Vincent will oversee infrastructure and transport, local government and housing and planning.
Madeleine Ogilvie rounds out the ministry with environment, innovation, science and the digital economy, community and multicultural affairs and arts and heritage.
The reshuffle sees several Liberals remain outside the ministry, including former ministers Michael Ferguson, Jacquie Petrusma and Roger Jaensch.
Marcus Vermey has been appointed government whip, with Rob Fairs becoming parliamentary secretary for youth engagement and sport.
