Seselja promoted in Cabinet reshuffle

Senator Zed Seselja has been promoted in the new Cabinet reshuffle. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.

ACT Liberal Senator Zed Seselja has been promoted in the latest Cabinet reshuffle, becoming Australia’s new Minister for International Development and the Pacific.

Senator Seselja was previously the Assistant Minister for Finance, Charities and Electoral Matters. It is his first ministerial position since being elected as an ACT Senator in 2013.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the portfolio demonstrates Australia’s commitment to our neighbours and extends beyond the Pacific ‘step up’ strategy as the country tries to build strong ties with island nations in 2021.

Other major changes include Health Minister Greg Hunt expanding his responsibilities, taking over the aged care portfolio from Richard Colbeck.

Senator Colbeck will retain responsibility for aged care services, including the delivery of residential and home care packages, aged care sector regulation and senior Australians.

Education Minister Dan Tehan will become the new Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment after Simon Birmingham moved to the finance ministry in October, while Alan Tudge will pick up the education and youth portfolios.

Alex Hawke will become Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs.

Senator Seselja was recently re-endorsed for the number one senate spot by the ACT Liberal party branch, easily defeating former naval officer and current Department of Defence employee Sam Fairall-Lee during pre-selection.