Canberra Labor MP Andrew Leigh falls foul of factions, moves to backbench

The unaligned MP Andrew Leigh, who was previously shadow assistant treasurer, will return to the backbench.

Under former Labor leader Bill Shorten Dr Leigh had managed to maintain his position in the shadow ministry despite the lack of factional backing, but in 2016 had to do so without the extra pay that usually comes from being on the opposition front bench.

Under new leader Anthony Albanese the left and right factions of the party have divided the 30 positions between them, leaving Dr Leigh on the outer.

ACT Labor Senator Katy Gallagher will resume her place on the frontbench, with the role to be confirmed next week. She was re-elected on May 18, after being ruled ineligible for parliament during the previous term under Section 44 of the Constitution. She has since fully renounced English citizenship.

Dr Leigh issued a statement saying he would serve in whatever way was asked of him over the next three years.

"My warmest congratulations to those chosen for the Labor frontbench today. Our party can be proud that we have so many talented people to serve in the shadow ministry," he said.

"I am privileged to have had the chance to serve for the past six years as part of Labor's frontbench economic team. As shadow assistant treasurer, I developed 19 policies to close multinational tax loopholes and tackle the scourge of tax havens."

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While Dr Leigh apparently missed out on retaining his position because of factional issues, he had a message for others like him in the party.

"To the many non-aligned members of the Labor Party, I urge you to stay engaged with Australia's oldest and greatest political party. Working in conjunction with the union movement, ours is a powerful force, and millions of voiceless people are counting on Labor," he said.

Mr Albanese said he would ask Dr Leigh to serve as the deputy chair of the parliamentary economics committee.

Ms Gallagher said she was honoured to be asked to be on the opposition front bench.

"It's an exciting team to be a part of with the right balance of experience and fresh faces," she said.

Mr Albanese will decide her portfolio responsibilities next week.

"I will serve in whatever capacity Albo thinks is best for the Labor team and to hold this government to account. I will also make sure Canberra is well represented at Labor's decision making table."

Ms Gallagher also paid tribute to Dr Leigh.

"Andrew is an enthusiastic member of the team and I am sure he will continue to have a lot to contribute to the Labor agenda heading towards the next election."