Freight Rail, Passenger Rail, Safety, Standards & Regulation

Albanese reappointed to shadow transport role

In an unsurprising announcement, Labor transport figurehead Anthony Albanese has been reappointed as shadow minister for transport and infrastructure.

Opposition leader Bill Shorten announced the new shadow front bench on July 23.

Albanese was reappointed to the shadow ministries of transport, infrastructure, cities and tourism, and also had regional development added to his title.

The member for Grayndler said he was “delighted” with the news.

“I’m pleased Bill Shorten has added Regional Development to my portfolio responsibilities,” he added, saying the move allowed Labor “to sharpen our focus on our regions and ensure they have the infrastructure required to underpin future economic growth”.

Australian Logistics Council boss Michael Kilgariff also welcomed the news, saying Albanese has a solid record in the infrastructure portfolio: committing funding for inland rail; establishing Infrastructure Australia; establishing a national transport regulatory regime for heavy vehicles, rail safety and maritime safety; and developing the first National Land Freight Strategy.

“Anthony Albanese’s re-appointment to Labor’s front bench will help to ensure infrastructure and Australia’s supply chains have a strong voice around the Shadow Cabinet table,” Kilgariff said.

“Mr Albanese has proven himself to be a committed advocate for this portfolio and ALC looks forward to working with him and his shadow ministerial colleagues over the course of this next parliament.”