Ministers on edge as Premier Perrottet remains tight lipped on his new reshuffle

Premier Dominic Perrottet is expected to announce his cabinet reshuffle this week, and there is one minister set to be a big winner.

Senior ministers expect Premier Dominic Perrottet to announce his cabinet reshuffle as early as Sunday.

The final scheduled cabinet meeting for the year will be held on Monday afternoon, with ministers speculating it would be an opportunity to get delayed legislation off the books – including the government’s response to the Ice Inquiry. It is understood a tentative cabinet meeting is also scheduled for December 20 if required.

One government source has speculated Mr Perrottet could consider Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres for the new cities portfolio given his close involvement with the Bradfield aerotropolis. It is believed Mr Ayres is also eyeing what would be a super portfolio, taking responsibility of liquor, gaming, racing, sports, and major events.

Premier Dominic Perrottet has remained hush-hush on his new ministry. Picture: Damian Shaw

Victor Dominello is expected to be stripped of liquor and gaming following a push from stakeholders who believe he is disinterested in the sector.

Reports of Cootamundra MP Steph Cooke being promoted to a ministry to bolster female participation in cabinet have been shot down by another government source who has put forward Miranda MP Eleni Petinos and Natasha Maclaren-Jones as favourites to join the frontbench.

Nationals deputy leader Bronnie Taylor is also considered a favourite if Mr Perrottet decides to act on calls to appoint a regional health minister but the duties would likely come alongside her remaining one in her existing portfolios of women and mental health.

Sources were divided on whether Deputy Premier Paul Toole – who gets to choose his role – would boot David Elliott from the police portfolio.

One suggested Mr Toole was unlikely to add that to the already heavy duties of regional NSW.

Another source said Mr Perrottet was “keeping his cards close to his chest” about his plans for the frontbench..