Deputy leader Richard Marles has dropped defence for the new portfolio of national construction, while also taking over from Brendan O'Connor in employment, skills, small business and science.

Ed Husic has been shifted to innovation and jobs, working closely with Mr Marles.

Mr O'Connor will be Labor's new defence spokesman.

Mark Butler has been bumped from the contentious climate change portfolio, swapping positions with former health spokesman Chris Bowen.

Clare O'Neill is taking on a new role as shadow minister for senior Australians and aged care services to work alongside Mr Butler.

Labor's deputy upper house leader Kristina Keneally will take on extra responsibility as the spokeswoman for government accountability with Pat Conroy to assist her.

Tasmanian Julie Collins has been appointed as shadow agriculture minister after losing responsibility for aged care.

West Australian Madeline King has added resources to her workload and will continue as trade spokeswoman, with Patrick Gorman appointed to assist her in a junior frontbench role.

"This reshuffle is about Australians getting the most out of Labor," Mr Albanese said.

"This is the strongest team to form an Albanese Labor government.

"The reshuffle is all about putting jobs at the centre of what we will do."

Australian Associated Press