Guy Barnett named Tasmanian Treasurer in cabinet reshuffle
Tasmania’s Liberal government has announced its new cabinet following the resignations of former deputy premier and treasurer Michael Ferguson and minister Nic Street.
Guy Barnett has been named as Tasmania’s Treasurer as part of a cabinet reshuffle that follows the resignations of former deputy premier Michael Ferguson and former finance minister Nic Street.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced a new Liberal government cabinet on Sunday, which will include newcomer Kerry Vincent as Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Local Government.
Jacquie Petrusma will rejoin cabinet as Minister for Health, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs.
Mr Barnett, who is serving as Deputy Premier, will retain his positions of Attorney-General and Minister for Justice alongside his new role as Treasurer.
Mr Rockliff will retain the portfolios of Tourism, Trade and Major Investment, while Jane Howlett will assume the portfolios of hospitality and small business and Felix Ellis will take on consumer affairs.
Jo Palmer will become Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence and Roger Jaensch will take mental health and wellbeing, as well as finance.
Madeleine Ogilvie will take on environment and the portfolio of science and technology.
Nick Duigan will become Minister for Sports and Events while keeping his energy and renewables and parks portfolios.
Mr Rockliff said he was confident the “refreshed” cabinet would “keep Tasmania moving forward”.
Tasmanian opposition Treasury spokesperson Josh Willie criticised the reshuffle, including the promotion of Mr Barnett to Treasurer.
Mr Willie said Mr Barnett failed to deliver “a single new project” in his former role as energy minister, oversaw “a multibillion-dollar blowout on Project Marinus” and caused “massive power price rises for Tasmanian families and businesses”.
Last week, Mr Ferguson pre-empted a vote of no confidence in parliament by announcing his resignation as treasurer.
He accepted responsibility for a bungled wharf development and the late, over-budget delivery of two ferries.
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