Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces new tourism and environment ministers

New Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced his first cabinet with new appointments to the tourism and environmental ministerships.

Morrison, Australia’s fifth prime minister in five years, announced Senator Simon Birmingham as Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment and Melissa Price as Minister for the Environment.

Senator Birmingham replaces Senator Steven Ciobo, who has been appointed Minister for Defence Industry.

Looking back on his achievements, Senator Ciobo advised “as Minister I secured record funding for Tourism Australia, which helped deliver record numbers of international tourists visiting Australia and spending record amounts.

“Earlier this year I convened a steering committee of tourism industry leaders to develop the next long term tourism strategy. I have no doubt Simon Birmingham will continue to drive this initiative to ensure our vibrant tourism industry continues to grow.”

In other leisure portfolios, Senator Bridget McKenzie retains the role of Minister for Sport and Rural Health with the addition of new responsibilities as Minister for Regional Services, Local Government and Decentralisation.

Greg Hunt remains Minister for Health while Senator Mitch Fifield returns as Minister for the Arts and Communications, a role he resigned from last week.

Images: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison (top) and Senator Simon Birmingham (below).