The mining sector has been snubbed by the incoming Abbott Government with this country’s biggest money-maker being lumped into the ‘Industry’ portfolio. Meanwhile ‘Sport’ gets a portfolio all of its own.
Queensland MP, Ian Macfarlane, has been officially announced as Australia’s new Minister for Industry, having been the Minister for Mining and Resources in opposition.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister-elect, Tony Abbott, at 3pm this afternoon.
Eric Abetz has been announced Employment Minister, having held the Shadow role in opposition.
Nationals leader Warren Truss will be Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development.
Greg Hunt has been announced Environment Minister.
Macfarlane is the Member for Groom, centred around Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. He has previously been the Minister for Small Business (2001) and the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources (2001 to 2007) under the Howard Government.
Prior to entering Federal Parliament, Macfarlane was a farmer on the darling Downs. His has had a long involvement in agri-politics and was the President of the Queensland Graingrowers Association for seven years, President of the Grains Council of Australia for two years and also held executive positions on the Queensland and National Farmers Federations.
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