New Minister for Social Services appointed as part of Cabinet reshuffle

The term as Minister for Social Services has come to an end for Christian Porter after 15 months in the position as the result of the reshuffle.

Announced on 19 December, the Federal ‘shake up’ has seen the appointment of Minister Porter to the role of Attorney General, with Dan Tehan taking over the role of Minister for Social Services.

Mr Porter welcomed his new appointment and that of Minister Tehan, also reflecting on his role as Minister for Social Services.

“It is an honour to be provided by the Prime Minister with the opportunity to serve as Attorney-General of Australia,” he says.

“I also congratulate Dan Tehan on his appointment as Minister for Social Services… the role of Minister for Social Services is critical to our nation achieving improved lives for Australian citizens.

“It has also been a particular privilege to play a key role in the critical period of the roll out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“This major reform is vital to the expected 460,000 people with disability who will be part of the NDIS when it reaches full scheme in 2020.

“I have seen first-hand the positive impact the NDIS is bringing to the lives of people with disability, their carers and families as we have moved from about 20,000 to more than 120,000 participants in the last two years.”

Mr Porter adds that the reform challenges of the NDIS rollout will have the “right people” to steer the initiative through its next critical phase.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who announced the reshuffle, says it was a reflection of the Government’s priorities.

“I have refreshed my Ministry to reflect the priorities and values of my Government,” the Prime Minister says.

“The Ministry is filled with energy and rich with diverse life experiences.

“Together we look forward to securing and delivering a safer and more prosperous Australia.”