FEDERAL MP Anne Webster has been promoted within the Coalition following its election loss and will be shadow assistant minister for regional development.
The Mallee MP was one of 10 women named in new Liberal leader Peter Dutton’s 24-member shadow ministry, as the Coalition restructures in the wake of an election defeat partly attributed to female voters abandoning the conservatives.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last week announced a record 13 women in the federal ministry, with 10 in Cabinet.
Asked about female representation on the new opposition front bench, Mr Dutton said on Sunday morning that “it’s important for us to have as many women as possible on the front bench”.
Deputy Liberal leader and former environment minister Sussan Ley, the Member for Farrer, will take on the industry portfolio, as well as becoming the opposition’s spokesperson for women. Angus Taylor will be the Opposition’s spokesperson on treasury matters.
Nationals leader David Littleproud stays in the agriculture portfolio and his deputy, Perin Davey, will have the water portfolio.
Dr Webster said Mr Littleproud had called her to offer her the role.
I have humbly accepted this role in the shadow ministry, and I look forward to contributing to policy development and leadership through strategic development and investment in regional Australia,” she said.
“As always, my focus remains the needs and interests of Mallee and I look forward to promoting the great opportunities in this region.”
