Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has unveiled a major cabinet reshuffle just one week into his premiership and four months before the state election. The new lineup features a streamlined ministry, reduced from 22 to 20 positions, as the government seeks to project a new direction. Among the most notable changes is the creation of a dedicated portfolio for artificial intelligence and the digital economy, which will be led by Anthony Carbines. The Premier stated that this new role is intended to drive innovation and investment while ensuring the development of AI remains ethical and responsible.
Alongside the new appointments, the Premier has abolished several standalone portfolios, including transport infrastructure, the Suburban Rail Loop, cost of living, and the men and boys portfolio. Mr. Carroll argued that these changes are necessary to save taxpayer money and improve government efficiency. He emphasized that ministers responsible for core areas like health, roads, and public transport will now oversee infrastructure projects within their existing remits. Furthermore, the Premier noted that cost-of-living pressures will be a central focus across every ministry rather than being siloed into a single department.
The reshuffle comes as the government prepares for a November election, with the Premier aiming to differentiate his administration from his predecessors. While the removal of the standalone Suburban Rail Loop portfolio has raised questions about the future of the project, the government maintains that the change is about better management rather than signaling the project's demise. The public can expect the new cabinet to focus heavily on economic growth, service delivery, and fiscal responsibility as the election approaches.