Gallagher handed an extra ministry ahead of election

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher is to replace Bill Shorten as Minister for Government Services, as part of a Federal Government mini-frontbench reshuffle announced on Thursday (16 January).

Senator Gallagher will retain her existing portfolios as the Minister for Finance, the Public Service, and Women, giving her a massive responsibility load.

The extra assignment is a temporary measure, however, with a federal election to be called sometime over the coming weeks.

The reshuffle was sparked by the resignation of Bill Shorten, who is leaving office on Monday, a few days earlier than expected.

His portfolios are being split between Senator Gallagher and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth, who will also become the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Minister for Youth Anne Aly will also become the Minister Assisting the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Anthony Albanese said he would be recommending the ministerial changes to Governor-General Sam Mostyn, with a swearing-in ceremony scheduled at Government House on Monday morning (20 January).

“Today I announce updates to the Cabinet and the Ministry, following the foreshadowed resignation of Bill Shorten MP as Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Minister for Government Services,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.

“I once again pay tribute to Bill Shorten for his decades of service and the tangible positive difference he’s made to the lives of Australians all over the country and to the NDIS.

“These positions will be in addition to the ministerial responsibilities already held by Ministers Rishworth, Gallagher and Aly.

“I am proud to lead a strong, united and stable Cabinet government focused on delivering for Australians now, while building Australia’s future.”

In addition to the changes involving the three ministers, Anika Wells, the Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Sport, has been promoted to the Cabinet.

Mr Shorten announced in September last year his commitment to leave politics to take up the post of vice-chancellor of the University of Canberra.

The intention then was that he would stay on the government’s front bench until February this year, but he is now leaving nine days earlier than planned.

Often referred to as the architect of the NDIS, Mr Shorten said he was proud of what he had achieved in that area.

“Over 30 years ago, when I joined the Australian Workers Union, I was driven by the belief that everyone, regardless of circumstance, deserves an equal opportunity,” he said when announcing his resignation.

The University of Canberra confirmed Mr Shorten will begin his role as the university’s vice-chancellor and president on Monday.

Acting chancellor Patricia Kelly said the university was excited to welcome him.

“It is an honour to welcome Bill Shorten as our incoming vice-chancellor,” Ms Kelly said.

“His values of providing opportunity to all and reducing inequalities were clearly reflected in his most recent role as the minister for the NDIS and Government Services.

“His passion for equity for all sits perfectly with UC’s vision to be the most accessible university in Australia.”