SA’s new ministers in front of Government House after their appointment. Photo: Peter Malinauskas, Facebook.
Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced his new Cabinet after a reshuffle, which has brought more women into South Australia’s Government than ever before.
The reshuffle was brought about by the retirements of ministers Susan Close and Stephen Mullighan and the elevation of two first-term MPs to the Cabinet: Member for King Rhiannon Pearce and Member for Adelaide Lucy Hood.
“I am proud to lead a disciplined and united team that bats incredibly deep, with a desire to get things done for South Australians,” Mr Malinauskas said.
“And I am delighted to introduce our refreshed Cabinet ahead of the March election.”
The new ministry comprises:
- Newcomer Rhiannon Pearce, who has been Assistant Minister for Junior Sport Participation. She becomes Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services and Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing.
- Another first-termer, Lucy Hood, who will fulfil the role of Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, where she will play a vital role in preparing Adelaide for COP31 if Australia’s bid to host the conference is successful.
- Kyam Maher MLC, who has been appointed Deputy Premier and will continue as Attorney-General and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs.
- Tom Koutsantonis, who has been appointed Treasurer. Mr Koutsantonis previously abolished stamp duty on all commercial transactions when he served as Treasurer from 2014 to 2018. He will also continue in his portfolio of Energy and Mining, where he will forge ahead with the state’s copper production plans.
- Emily Bourke MLC, who will take on the roles of Minister for Autism, in a nation first, and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport.
- Premier Malinauskas, who will take on the role of Minister for Defence and Space Industries to support the construction of naval vessels in the state.
- Nadia Clancy, who will work as the Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention as the state delivers record investment in new mental health beds. Ms Clancy will build on her work as Premier’s Advocate for Suicide Prevention.
- Katrine Hildyard, who will take on the newly separated roles of Minister for Women and Minister for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, a move recommended by a royal commission, and continue in her current role as Minister for Child Protection.
- Blair Boyer, who will continue as Education Minister while adding Minister for Police to his portfolios, where his main priority will be in reaching the target of 5000 police officers for the state.
- Joe Szakcs, who will add the responsibilities of Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science and Minister for Local Government and Veterans’ Affairs to his existing role of Minister for Trade and Investment.
The new Cabinet, for the first time in South Australian history, has more women than men, a point of pride for the Premier.
“My team reflects the rich diversity in our society,” he said.
”I am proud of the fact that for the first time in history, we have more women than men in Cabinet.
“Rhiannon Pearce, Lucy Hood and Nadia Clancy are each thoroughly deserving of their elevations, and I congratulate them on their appointments.”
Newly minted Minister Pearce said of her new ministry: “I’m passionate about doing everything we can to keep South Australians active and healthy. That means supporting sport and recreation at every level, investing in community facilities, and encouraging healthier lifestyles.”
