The Liberal National Party (LNP) has introduced its first Queensland cabinet, showcasing notable reshuffles and ministers allocated to newly established departments.
The cabinet, sworn in on Nov. 1, includes new ministries encompassing victim support, home ownership, customer services, open data, and integrity.
Following the LNP’s victory, which ended Labor’s nine-year reign, Premier David Crisafulli has rewarded senior leadership with major portfolios in his 19-strong team.
“I promised Queenslanders the same experienced faces who have been fighting for a fresh start for Queensland would be the ones to deliver it,” Crisafulli stated.
While several ministers retained their positions, notable changes have been made to key portfolios.
David Janetzki is set to continue as Treasurer but will also handle energy and home ownership.
Ros Bates has transitioned from Health to lead finance, trade, employment, and training.
Retained and New Portfolios
Laura Gerber, Dale Last, and Dan Purdie are the only members retaining their former opposition portfolios.Gerber will lead the new victim support portfolio alongside youth justice and corrective services, while Purdie continues as Minister for Police. Last will oversee natural resources, mines, manufacturing, and regional development.
The agriculture department has been replaced by primary industries, led by Tony Perrett.
Rising star Sam O'Connor has been promoted to manage housing, public works, and youth after holding the environment portfolio.
Andrew Powell, previously on the backbench, re-enters the ministry to lead the environment, tourism, science, and innovation portfolio, a role he held during the Newman government in 2012.
Amanda Camm continues her focus on child safety and the prevention of domestic and family violence while adding families, seniors, and disability services to her responsibilities.
Brent Mickelberg will take charge of transport and main roads, while Steve Minnikin will take on Customer Services and Open Data for the first time, alongside Small and Family Businesses.
Christian Rowan, previously overseeing education, will serve as Leader of the House, a position now held by John-Paul Langbroek.
Looking Ahead
Crisafulli is set to ask his new team to work through the weekend in preparation for its first cabinet meeting on Nov. 4.He will provide each minister with a charter letter detailing his expectations and the targets they must meet. With two parliamentary sitting weeks planned before Christmas, youth crime laws are a priority during the sessions scheduled for Nov. 26-28 and Dec. 10-12.
As election counting nears completion, the LNP is expected to secure a majority with 53 seats to Labor’s 35, positioning the new government to tackle key issues and deliver on its promises for a fresh start for Queensland.
