New Western Australian Premier announces refreshed cabinet portfolios

Western Australia's new Premier Roger Cook has announced ministerial portfolios in his new administration with changes in responsibility for tourism and local government.

Premier Cook, who held the tourism portfolio in outgoing Premier Mark McGowan's Government, passes the role to new Deputy Premier and Treasurer Rita Saffioti, in addition to her current role of Transport Minister.

Incoming Minister David Michael takes on the local government portfolio.

Minister Saffioti's appointment has been welcomed by Tourism Council WA.

Stating that said tourism was a great fit with the transport portfolio, with a high degree of connection between the two portfolios, Tourism Council WA Chief Executive, Evan Hall noting "the appointment of a senior Minister to the tourism portfolio and the alignment with the transport portfolio is welcome as Western Australia continues to rebuild its visitor economy.

“The fact that tourism has stayed at the Deputy Premier level shows the State Government’s commitment to the post-COVID tourism recovery, diversifying our state economy and generating new jobs through tourism growth.

“There are particular synergies between the tourism and transport portfolios when it comes to aviation development, regional transport and event day transport, and we look forward to working with Minister Saffioti on these matters and other issues affecting the tourism industry.”

Hall thanked the new Premier, for his critical role in starting Western Australia’s tourism recovery while Tourism Minister, adding "during his time as Tourism Minister, the now Premier made critical inroads for the WA tourism recovery, such as through investing in major events to attract out of state visitors, and supported the industry, such as with prompt action to support businesses affected by the Kimberley floods."

Image: Western Australia's new Premier Roger Cook.