Ag Minister Murray Watt tipped for a promotion

Talk of a federal cabinet reshuffle has reached a crescendo, with popular Agriculture Minister Murray Watt mooted for a promotion.

Murray Watt’s office declined to comment on rumours that he had been singled out as the most likely contender for the Home Affairs portfolio. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Talk of a federal cabinet reshuffle has reached a crescendo, with popular Agriculture Minister Murray Watt mooted for a promotion.

Speculation is mounting that Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney or Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor will hand in their resignation at the end of this term of parliament.

Mr O’Connor told journalists last week it was up to the Prime Minister to consider a reshuffle.

“At some point before the election, I’ll make a decision as to whether I continue as a candidate in the forthcoming election or not. But at this point, I’ve made no decision about leaving the parliament,” he said.

A resignation would provide Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with a chance to immediately reshuffle Labor’s cabinet.

Talk has centred on the possible demotions of Home Affairs Minister Claire O’Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, who have both faced the heat over immigration issues that have led to the release of criminal non-citizens back into the community.

Senator Murray Watt has been tipped for a potential promotion. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Murray Watt’s office declined to comment on rumours that he had been singled out as the most likely contender for the Home Affairs portfolio, based on his strong performances at Senate estimates grillings.

Prior to the federal government’s passing of legislation to end live sheep exports by 2028 and its surprise push for farmers to pay a biosecurity levy – quietly axed after failing to pass through the Senate – Mr Watt was widely liked within the agricultural sector. This is despite the former barrister residing in inner Brisbane and having little personal connection to the land.

The offices of Mr O’Connor and Ms Burney were contacted for comment.