Indigenous MP Ken Wyatt among new Turnbull ministers sworn in

Malcolm Turnbull's new frontbenchers have been sworn in at Government House in Canberra.

The new ministers after being sworn in

The new ministers after being sworn in. Indigenous MP Ken Wyatt on the far right Source: AAP

A new batch of Turnbull government ministers has been sworn in by Governor-General Peter Cosgrove during a ceremony at Government House in Canberra.

The fresh flock of frontbenchers were elevated to their positions by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull following Sussan Ley's recent resignation over an expenses scandal.

Sir Peter swore in Greg Hunt as the new health minister and NSW senator Arthur Sinodinos to replace Mr Hunt in the industry and science portfolio.

West Australian MP Ken Wyatt, who has become the first indigenous Australian to oversee a federal government department, wore a kangaroo skin draped over his suit for the ceremony.
Mr Wyatt has taken on the role of aged care and indigenous health minister.

NSW MP David Gillespie has become assistant health minister, while Victoria's Michael Sukkar is assistant minister to the treasurer.

Special Minister of State Scott Ryan will add a new role as minister assisting the prime minister for cabinet.

As Mr Turnbull greeted his frontbenchers and their families before the ceremony, the firmest handshake came from an unlikely guest.

"My dad works for you," beamed Senator Sinodinos' six-year-old daughter Isabella as she gripped the prime minister's hand.
Minister for Industry Greg Hunt (R) hugs Minister for Indigenous Health and Aged Care Ken Wyatt at a swearing-in ceremony at Government House in Canberra
Minister for Industry Greg Hunt (R) hugs Minister for Indigenous Health and Aged Care Ken Wyatt at a swearing-in ceremony at Government House in Canberra Source: AAP
"Yes he does indeed and he works very well, very hard," Mr Turnbull replied.

After swearing oaths of office and allegiances to the Queen, the men posed for a photographs before a cup of tea.

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2 min read
Published 24 January 2017 3:12pm
Updated 24 January 2017 7:45pm
Source: AAP


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