The Premier is now in charge of the Mental Health portfolio in the Liberals’ fifth cabinet reshuffle in two years, being sold as a reset to get the government “back on track” from distractions including the Hobart stadium and the defection of two MPs to the crossbench.
Tuesday’s swearing in ceremony at Government House saw Jeremy Rockliff hand the wider Health portfolio, traditionally regarded as the poisoned chalice of politics, to Lyons colleague Guy Barnett.
Mental Health Council of Tasmania CEO Connie Digolis says helping people engage with services should be a priority.
“We also need to do some broad work on increasing confidence and understanding of the free, low-cost, evidence-based support options that are available for people,” she said.
Colony 47’s Olivia Shekleton has told Seven she’s hopeful Franklin MP Nic Street can make some headway in the Housing portfolio, which has now had four Ministers since the Liberals came to power.
“We think it’s so important to listen to the people who are using our services and are experiencing homelessness,” she said.
“They are the key to finding solutions to this crisis.”
The reshuffle, which included the creation of a “Stadia” portfolio for Mr Street, also saw Felix Ellis take over Racing, while Jo Palmer will head up Community Services and Development.
