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Tasmanian Senator Claire Chandler also takes on the science portfolio in return to frontbench as part of a wider reshuffle.
Tasmanian Senator Claire Chandler has been appointed to the Liberal National Party’s shadow ministry, taking over the cyber security and science portfolios.
“In recent months, Senator Chandler has worked diligently in prosecuting Labor’s national security missteps,” Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said in a 14 September statement.
“She has a deep passion for the subject matter in both these important portfolios.”
Chandler had held several cabinet roles previously, but was dumped from the frontbench following the LNP’s electoral defeat earlier this year.
“Australia’s national security is under real pressure from foreign interference and cyber threats. These are serious issues, and I’ve consistently spoken out about them because they matter to me and to many Australians,” Chandler said in a post to X.
“That’s why I’ve taken on the opportunity to serve in a key national security role as shadow minister for cyber security and shadow minister for science. These portfolios are central to our national interest. Cyber security is a frontline issue for Australia’s safety and sovereignty, and science is critical to building the capability we need to stay secure and competitive in a fast-moving world.
“I look forward to using this role not just to hold the Albanese government to account, but also to help shape the Coalition’s direction and policies to strengthen Australia’s defences and protect our future.”
Ley also announced the creation of a new shadow ministry position, with Simon Kennedy assigned to the new role of shadow assistant minister for artificial intelligence. Kennedy will also take on the portfolios of the digital economy and government waste.
“Simon is one of the brightest minds in the Parliament and is a welcome addition to the shadow executive,” Ley said.
Melissa Price was moved to the defence and defence personnel portfolios, and Senator Richard Colbeck will take over Chandler’s role as Senate co-chair of the liberal legislative committee. Senator James Paterson was also confirmed as a member of the Coalition’s leadership group.
The reshuffle follows Jacinta Nampijinpa Price’s removal from the shadow ministry following controversial remarks about Australia’s Indian community.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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