Cabinet reshuffle: Jacquie Petrusma and Kerry Vincent promoted to cabinet

The Premier has unveiled his new look cabinet. Here’s who’s getting a promotion.

New deputy premier Guy Barnett watching premier Jeremy Rockliff. Return to the House of Assembly question time. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Guy Barnett will become Tasmania’s new treasurer with former minister Jacquie Petrusma heading back to cabinet along with newcomer and former Sorell mayor Kerry Vincent.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced his new look cabinet in Launceston on Sunday afternoon following the shock resignations this week of Deputy Premier and Treasurer Michael Ferguson and Finance, Sport, Events and Local Government Minister Nic Street.

Mr Rockliff said Mr Barnett would stay as Attorney-General.

“As the government approaches the 200 day mark since being elected for a historic fourth term, I am confident that the refreshed Cabinet will keep Tasmania moving forward,” he said

“As Treasurer, Guy will ensure that we continue to foster economic growth and activity and promote a business-friendly investment environment.

“Since we took office, the Tasmanian economy has grown significantly and as Treasurer, Guy will continue our focus on economic development and job creation.”

Jacquie Petrusma, who resigned from parliament in 2022 to spend more time with her family but returned after winning back her seat in Franklin at the March state election will become Minister for health, Aboriginal affairs and veterans’ affairs.

Jacquie Petrusma MP and Jane Howlett MP. Picture: Chris Kidd

Mr Rockliff said she was an experienced minister who had established relationships with the Aboriginal community when she was previously minister for Aboriginal affairs.

“As a registered nurse, Jacquie will bring with her an intimate knowledge of the challenges that our health system faces and an awareness of the inner workings of our hospitals like no other,” he said.

Long-serving Sorell mayor, Kerry Vincent, who was elected to the Legislative Council in the seat of Prosser this year will become minister for infrastructure and local government.

Prosser Liberal Kerry Vincent. Picture: Chris Kidd

“As the former mayor of Sorell, Kerry played an instrumental role in the transformation of Sorell which has seen the construction and delivery of generational infrastructure for his constituents, in partnership with State and Federal Governments,” Mr Rockliff said.

“Kerry will be a real driver of better outcomes for a number of key infrastructure projects across the state.

“Kerry has a wealth of experience in local government and fully understands the challenges and opportunities it faces.”

Mr Rockliff said his new cabinet would “continue to face challenges head on”.

Other cabinet changes

• Mr Rockliff will retain the portfolios of tourism, trade and major investment.

• Nick Duigan will retain the portfolios energy and renewables, parks and assume the role of Sports and Events Minister.

• Jane Howlett will take on hospitality and small business.

• Roger Jaensch will take on mental health and wellbeing, and finance.

• Madeleine Ogilvie will become Environment Minister and the portfolio of science and technology will be incorporated into a new portfolio of Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy.

• Jo Palmer will take on the role of Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence.

• Simon Wood will remain as Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Government Whip.

• Simon Behrakis will become Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier. He will also continue as Parliamentary Secretary for Housing and Planning.

• Rob Fairs will become Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Engagement, providing additional support for Mr Jaensch in his capacity as Minister for Children and Youth.