WITH the Federal Election firmly behind us and the new government ministry sworn in, Opposition leader, Peter Dutton unveiled the Coalition’s new shadow ministry over the weekend with Wannon MP, Dan Tehan appointed to the portfolio of immigration and citizenship.
The shadow ministry reshuffle includes a stronger line up of women on the front bench and more Nationals.
Mr Tehan, a Liberal, served as Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, from December 2020, however, now in opposition, the responsibility has been reassigned to The Nationals, a coveted portfolio they traditionally held.
Mr Tehan claimed victory in the seat of Wannon following a two-candidate preferred vote count that lasted almost ten days before independent Alex Dyson officially conceded last week on Monday night.
The Department of Home Affairs administers Australia’s Immigration and Citizenship programs, including resettlement of migrants and refugees.
Mr Tehan said he was honoured to be asked to serve as shadow immigration and citizenship minister.
“Immigration is an important policy area,” he said.
“I want to work with businesses across Australia so we can address the critical workforce shortages we currently face.
“This will be crucial to keeping our economy strong and for growing our businesses, both large and small, into the future.”
Australia responded to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia prioritising resettlement of displaced Ukrainians with over 6,000 visas granted since February 23.
“Our response to resettling Ukrainians following Russia’s illegal invasion has been unprecedented and must continue,” Mr Tehan said.
In Opposition, Mr Tehan proposes to hold the government to account in the way we engage with multicultural communities, which is critical to Australia’s future success.
“It is a challenge I look forward to undertaking,” he said.
Mr Tehan congratulated his colleagues who have been asked to serve in the shadow ministry.
“The role of the Opposition is to develop alternative policies and hold the Government to account for its policy commitments,” he said.
“It is a job that is essential to the proper functioning of our democracy.”
