Senate debates

Tuesday, 20 March 2007

Ministerial Arrangements

2:45 pm

Photo of Nick MinchinNick Minchin (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance and Administration) Share this | | Hansard source

by leave—On 5 March and 18 March this year, the Prime Minister announced a number of changes to the ministry. I inform the Senate that, as a result of those changes, Senator Chris Ellison has been appointed to the cabinet—and I congratulate him—as the Minister for Human Services. Senator Ellison will in this place take questions not only on Human Services but also on behalf of the portfolios of Health and Ageing, Immigration and Citizenship, Defence and Veterans’ Affairs.

Senator the Hon. David Johnston has been sworn in as the Minister for Justice and Customs and I congratulate him on that appointment. Senator Johnston will take questions on behalf of the portfolio of Transport and Regional Services. Senator Eric Abetz has been properly appointed as the Manager of Government Business in the Senate, and I congratulate him also. Senator Brett Mason will become the new Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and Ageing, and I commend him on his promotion. Upon the swearing in, which is scheduled for tomorrow, I will table an updated list of the full ministry.