Former NSW premier Bob Carr will join the Senate and become the Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, announced Prime Minister Julia Gillard at a press conference today.
The cabinet reshuffle for the Australian Labor Party followed last week’s resignation by former ALP leader Kevin Rudd and his failed leadership challenge this week. Craig Emerson will still act as Foreign Affairs Minister until Mr Carr takes over. Mr Rudd now sits on the back bench.
“You don’t choose the moment, very often the moment chooses you,” said Mr Carr about his new position. He said he would seek advice from Mr Rudd about international relations.
In today’s cabinet reshuffle, Ms Gillard announced that Jason Clare will take on the additional portfolio of Minister for Defence Materiel. Kim Carr will move to the human services portfolio. Robert McClelland has been demoted to the back bench. She said Stephen Smith would remain as Defence Minister. Dr Emerson will also take on an expanded role of Minister for Trade and Competitiveness. Brendan O’Connor moves into cabinet, to take the position of Minister for Small Business, as well as Minister for Housing and Homelessness. Attorney-General Nicola Roxon takes on the additional portfolio of Emergency Management. Environment Minister Tony Burke will take on the additional role of Vice-President of the Executive Council.
