Albanese implements significant changes and introduces a new role for Plibersek

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to depart for Rome shortly to participate in the inauguration Mass for Pope Leo XIV alongside global leaders. .

This trip follows a significant overhaul of his federal cabinet, which includes appointments in workplace relations, environment, and social services. During his visit to the Vatican, Albanese is anticipated to engage with various leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, amidst rising global apprehensions regarding American trade and security policies under President Donald Trump. In a move aimed at establishing a fresh agenda for Labor's second term, Albanese has made noteworthy changes to his ministry, promoting five individuals and reallocating six others. This restructuring comes in line with a factional agreement that led to the removal of Mark Dreyfus and Ed Husic from cabinet positions.

Following Husic's criticism of Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles as a "factional assassin," Albanese sought to downplay internal tensions, asserting that the reshuffle adhered to customary processes within the Labor caucus for selecting frontbench members. Albanese highlighted their ambitious plans to improve the nation, boasting that Labor would now hold the largest federal caucus since Federation, with a minimum of 92 seats, compared to the Coalition's 41. In his remarks, Albanese expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon his government during the election, affirming that they would not take this responsibility lightly. On Wednesday, Albanese will leave for a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta before heading to Rome for discussions with other world leaders and the formal Mass for Pope Leo's inauguration on Sunday. Discussions will focus on strengthening collaboration with Canada, a critical security partner impacted by Trump's policies, and the potential for a revised trade agreement with the European Union, which was previously postponed due to concerns from Australian beef and lamb exporters. As part of the cabinet changes, two members from the Left faction—Anne Aly and Tim Ayres—have been elevated to federal cabinet, following the recent factional reshuffles. Aly will make history as the first Muslim woman to serve in a cabinet role, taking on the positions of Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Development, along with responsibility for small business. Ayres will assume the role of Minister for Industry and Innovation, as well as Minister for Science, succeeding Husic. In a significant reshuffle, Tanya Plibersek will transition from her previous role as Minister for Environment to become Minister for Social Services, a crucial position following previous departmental controversies regarding issues like robo-debt and income support.

Additionally, Queensland Senator Murray Watt will step into the role of Minister for Environment and Water, as the government seeks to reignite discussions with the Greens regarding pending legislation to establish an environmental protection agency for project approvals. Anika Wells will exchange her previous role in aged care for that of Minister for Communications and Sport, a vital position as the government contemplates potential regulations on online gambling amidst pressures from media companies and sports organizations. Amanda Rishworth, the former Minister for Social Services, now takes on the role of Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, replacing Watt. Meanwhile, Michelle Rowland, the previous Minister for Communications, will serve as Attorney-General to succeed Dreyfus. This reshuffle comes soon after a resounding election victory for Labor, which expanded its majority amid considerable losses for the Coalition. Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles have maintained their current roles. When questioned about Plibersek's new position, Albanese succinctly noted, "She was very positive about the portfolio." The National Disability Insurance Scheme will now be overseen by both Mark Butler, the Health Minister, who will take on cabinet-level responsibilities for the NDIS, and NSW Senator Jenny McAllister, who will serve as Minister for the NDIS in the outer ministry, following the retirement of former minister Bill Shorten ahead of the election. Andrew Charlton, a key figure that Albanese aimed to promote, will be appointed as Cabinet Secretary and Assistant Minister for Science and the Digital Economy. The new ministry is scheduled to be sworn in by Governor-General Sam Mostyn at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. Stay informed on federal politics with in-depth news, perspectives, and expert analysis.