Queensland gets new health, housing, youth justice ministers in massive cabinet reshuffle
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has unveiled a new-look cabinet following a significant reshuffle that has seen a number of portfolios reassigned, including health, housing and youth justice.
As reported exclusively by 9News State Political Editor Tim Arvier on Tuesday, Yvette D’Ath has been dumped as health minister, with former attorney-general Shannon Fentiman replacing her.
D’Ath has taken Fentiman’s vacated position as attorney-general and minister for the prevention of domestic and family violence, while Fentiman has picked up the mental health portfolio while remaining the state’s minister for women.
Elsewhere, Meaghan Scanlon, considered by some to be a potential future premier, has been promoted into the new standalone housing portfolio to address the state’s current crisis, while Transport Minister Mark Bailey has had digital services added to his responsibilities.
Leeanna Enoch was previously the minister for communities and housing as well as the minister for digital economy, but now has the treaty, indigenous affairs and communities portfolios, in addition to her existing role as arts minister.
Di Farmer has been handed the responsibility of dealing with Queensland’s youth crime crisis as the state’s new minister for youth justice.
Palaszczuk said the changes marked a new beginning for her government.
“Our government cares about Queenslanders and what they’re thinking – I have listened, and I have acted,” the premier said.
“I’m firmly focused on the future. And I’m firmly focused on the key issues affecting Queenslanders – as my government is.
“That’s why I have refreshed the government by refreshing the cabinet and today marks a new beginning.”
