The Federal Government has announced the appointment of a new Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, who is set to bring a focus on rural and regional infrastructure.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Michael McCormack, announced Calare MP Andrew Gee as the newest addition to the frontbench. Mr McCormack said Mr Gee’s experience in both state and federal politics will be an asset in the infrastructure portfolio.
“He was Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier and for Regional Roads in the NSW Liberal and Nationals’ Government before he came to represent Calare in Canberra, and that experience listening to country communities and sharing their ideas and aspirations will be central to Andrew’s new role,” Mr McCormack said.
“Having worked with Andrew as we delivered the historic Murray-Darling Medical Schools network, I know when he is passionate about sticking up for country people and delivering local services and infrastructure, he is determined to deliver.
“That’s what I want him to do as an Assistant Minister in our portfolio, as we roll out record funding for local roads, local infrastructure projects and keep regional Australia—with country voices in the Ministry—at the centre of our agenda in Government.”
Mr Gee said he looks forward to the new challenge of the frontbench role.
“I’m passionate about bridging the great divide between the cities and the bush not only in health services but also making sure that country communities get their fair share of jobs and funding for roads, transport, education and communications.
“The Central West is seeing the benefit of investment through decentralisation of the Regional Investment Corporation and many local roads and bridges being made safer around the region. I want to use my experience in delivering these and my passion for regional Australia across the nation.
“By investing in the services and infrastructure, we help get people home sooner and safer and make the regions a more attractive place for families and businesses to live, work and invest.”
Mr Gee will be sworn in as Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister later in January.
