Nationals leader and incoming deputy prime minister Warren Truss will take on responsibility for territories when the Abbott government ministry is sworn in on Wednesday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Truss was named minister for infrastructure and regional development by prime minister-elect Tony Abbott and will replace outgoing Victorian Labor MP Catherine King in the portfolio.
The 64-year-old will take over ministerial responsibility for the ACT, Northern Territory and offshore areas including Norfolk Island, Indian Ocean territories and the Australian Antarctic Territory.
Under the former Gillard and Rudd governments, territories had formed part of the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport. Mr Abbott said he had sought to simplify ministerial and departmental titles, reflecting a "back to basics" approach to government.
Departmental staff will advise Mr Truss on governance and Commonwealth planning responsibilities in the ACT as well as policy and legislation maintaining effective systems of self-government.
Liberal frontbencher Andrew Robb was awarded the trade portfolio.
