Labor Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has received a promotion to the NSW Cabinet.
Until today, Ms Saffin held the title of parliamentary secretary.
But the premier this morning announced changes to the NSW government ministry and Cabinet, including promotions for two Northern Rivers representatives.
The Member for Lismore was to be sworn in this morning as the Minister for Recovery, the Minister for Small Business, and the Minister for the North Coast.
Meanwhile, Emily Suvaal, who is a member in the Upper House, was to receive the title of Parliamentary Secretary for Trade and Small Business.
‘Janelle is one of the most experienced MPs in the NSW Government,’ Premier Chris Minns said via media release this morning.
‘She has been instrumental in helping the Lismore community and surrounds recover from the 2022 floods as well as the recent impacts from Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred,’ Mr Minns said.
‘She has intimate knowledge of the workings of the NSW Reconstruction Authority and will be a very strong advocate and voice for the North Coast as well as small businesses across the state.’
The Echo sought comment from Ms Saffin, who was busy being sworn in down in Sydney.
Regional roads included in state’s Roads portfolio
Also of particular interest to the Northern Rivers is the new inclusion of regional roads in the state government’s Roads portfolio.
Jenny Aitchison was to be sworn in this morning as the new Minister for Roads and the Minister for Regional Transport.
‘As a regional MP Jenny Aitchison is well placed to ensure the needs of regional and rural communities are met,’ Mr Minns said.
New transport minister announced after Haylen scandal
Other changes to the Minns Government Ministry are Member of the Legislative Council John Graham taking on the role of Minister for Transport after the departure of former minister Jo Haylen.
Ms Haylen resigned earlier this year after admitting to the use parliamentary cars and drivers for a private lunch.
Mr Graham would still keep his title of Special Minister of State, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, Mr Minns said.
He would also continue working on the government’s response to a recent state toll review, the premier said, ‘given the Government is mid-negotiation with toll companies about reforming the system’.
Steve Kamper is the new Minister for Jobs and Tourism.
Mr Kamper already held three portfolios that are to remain under his ministerial leadership: Lands and Property; the Multiculturalism; and Sport.
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