A stamp of approval has been given to former Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk’s next move—a board position with Australia Post.
However, the federal opposition has slammed the posting, claiming the Commonwealth has appointed “one of its Labor mates.”
Eight months after tearfully resigning from state politics, Palaszczuk will sit on the Australia Post board as a non-executive director.
The three-year gig reportedly has an annual salary of $107,000 (US$70,980).
She replaces ex-Liberal Party federal director Tony Nutt.
It marks one of her first roles since she left office as Australia’s longest-serving female premier in December.
Palaszczuk had recently announced she would take on an international ambassadorial role for independent non-profit Smart Energy Council, leading a delegation to China in June.
Now she has landed the Australia Post gig, adding to a resume that included a near nine-year stint as Queensland premier.
“I congratulate Palaszczuk on her appointment to the Australia Post board,” federal Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said in a statement.
“She brings a wealth of experience to the role, which will help Australia Post modernise and meet the changing needs of consumers.”
But opposition communications spokesman David Coleman took aim at the Labor government over the appointment.
“This is just rank hypocrisy, writ large, made worse by the fact that the Albanese government has appointed a failed and unpopular former Queensland premier,” he told News Corp Australia.
“Australia Post is going through a significant reform process in an era of change and the last thing the board needs is for the government to appoint one of its Labor mates whose poor record in public administration speaks for itself.”
Palaszczuk announced her shock resignation in late 2023 after becoming the first Australian female premier to claim three terms.
“Ms Palaszczuk brings ... experience in service delivery to regional and rural communities to the Australia Post board,” federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said.
“Ms Palaszczuk’s appointment ensures a strong and diverse board to support Australia Post.”
A new chapter now looms for Palaszczuk, who is also reportedly writing a book about her life in politics, promising “explosive insights” after linking with celebrity agent Max Markson earlier in 2024.
