Bill Shorten’s replacement as NDIS Minister has been announced.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth has now taken up the position, after Shorten’s departure this week to serve as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canberra.
Rishworth noted she has worked closely with Shorten over the past two and a half years.
“There are 5.5 million Australians with disability and our Albanese Labor Government is committed to an inclusive Australia where all people with disability can thrive and reach their goals as equal members of the community,” she said.
She added she has big shoes to fill.
“Minister Shorten… has overseen significant reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme and has been a champion for the Labor-introduced scheme from its inception. Under his leadership we have seen people with disability put back at the centre of the NDIS.
“I’d like to acknowledge Minister Shorten for his invaluable contribution to our nation and to the lives of people with disability across our country.”
Rishworth’s new portfolio was announced as part of a wider Cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
It saw Dr Anne Aly handed the newly created position of assistant NDIS minister.
People with Disability Australia congratulated the ministers on their appointments.
“This is an opportunity to build on the foundation of the NDIS and ensure it delivers what it was designed to achieve: a better quality of life, independence and participation in the community for people with disability. We look forward to working with Minister Rishworth and Assisting Minister Dr Aly to ensure the voices of our community are heard, respected and leading reform,” PWDA President Trinity Ford said.