Newly re-elected NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian has added a position in her cabinet to specifically focus on transport in the state’s regions.
Berejiklian, whose Liberal Party was on March 23 returned to Government in its coalition with the Nationals, outlined the state’s new cabinet alongside deputy premier and NSW Nationals leader John Barilaro on Sunday.
Andrew Constance is now the minister for transport and main roads, following on from his position as minister for transport and infrastructure prior to the election.
A new transport position, minister for regional transport and roads, was granted to Liberal MP Paul Toole, formerly the minister for lands and forestry, and minister for racing.
Robert Stokes is the state’s new minister for planning and public spaces, moving from the education portfolio. Former planning minister Anthony Roberts is now minister for counter terrorism and corrections. Dominic Perrottet returns as the state’s treasurer. Stuart Ayres is also back in his role as minister for Western Sydney, where a range of new rail projects are either promised or in planning.
Notably the word ‘infrastructure’ is snubbed from the new cabinet list entirely.
Berejiklian said the new cabinet combines new blood with experience, and introduces a number of new key portfolios.
“After taking our economy from last to first and rolling out the most ambitious infrastructure program in the nation, we are now focused on getting the job done and delivering real benefits to families and individuals across NSW,” the premier said.
“This cabinet is very much outcomes focused and will deliver positive improvements to the lives of people – whether they are in our cities or in the regions.”
Barilaro said new ministers for regional youth and regional transport will “target the unique needs in our communities and will deliver real positive outcomes on the ground.”