LYNE MP Dr David Gillespie will be sworn in as Assistant Minister for Health on January 24 after a minor federal cabinet reshuffle.
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Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull reappointed Dr Gillespie to the ministry with the new title of Assistant Minister for Health.
Mr Turnbull announced minor ministerial changes after Sussan Ley’s resignation from the ministry.
Dr Gillespie said he was really pleased and honoured to again be part of the health portfolio.
He said the role may involve more responsibility.
Dr Gillespie served as Assistant Minister for Rural Health since July 2016 and had 33 years of medical practice before entering federal politics.
“It gives you a deeper understanding of the whole health industry,” he said about his experience.
“I am not starting from scratch like many people who would come into this portfolio.
“That gives you the ability to digest information, suggestions and policy ideas and it also gives you a lot of corporate knowledge.”
Dr Gillespie welcomed Wednesday’s announcement that Greg Hunt will be appointed the Minister for Health and Minister for Sport.
“Greg has proven himself to be a very good cabinet minister and will bring to the health portfolio the drive needed to ensure important reforms are delivered by our government at the most senior levels,” Dr Gillespie said.
“The Prime Minister has also announced that I will be reappointed to the ministry with the new title of Assistant Minister for Health continuing on with my existing responsibilities in regional, rural and remote health, health workforce, food policy and health safety.
“I will also be working with Greg on a broader number of policy areas across the health portfolio to ensure Australia’s health system continues to lead the world in health care delivery, health innovation and research.”
Dr Gillespie said he would ensure rural and regional health issues got a loud voice in Canberra, in government generally, and in the health department.
Meanwhile, Dr Gillespie congratulated Ken Wyatt on his appointment as the Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Indigenous Health.
Mr Turnbull said the ministerial changes would further strengthen his ministry by combining experience and new talent.
“It is a team that is focused on delivering for all Australians,” he said.