Geoff Helisma|
Prime Minster Scott Morrison has named Page MP Kevin Hogan as Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals leader Michael McCormack.
Mr Hogan’s promotion follows the fallout from the ‘sports rorts’ saga: the resignation of former Nationals deputy leader Bridget McKenzie – and Senator Matt Canavan’s subsequent resignation from Cabinet in order to throw his support behind Barnaby Joyce’s failed attempt to regain the Nationals’ leadership.
Mr Hogan told the parliament on Thursday February 6: “I’ve been advised by the Deputy Prime Minister that I am to be appointed to the ministry following the rising of the House today.
“As a consequence, I will be resigning from the Deputy Speaker role prior to my swearing in.”
In a media statement, Mr Hogan said: “I am very humbled to be promoted today to Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister.
“My first priority will always be, as the Member for Page; without the support of our community, I would not have the opportunity to serve and represent us.
“I am grateful to have been given this new role.”
Mr Hogan replaces Andrew Gee, who is now Minister for Regional Education, Decentralisation and Minister Assisting the Minister for Trade and Investment.
Mr Hogan said Mr McCormack’s ministry covers the areas of infrastructure, transport and regional development.
“My position is literally as it sounds, I assist the minister … it’s quite a big department.
“I’ll have my own charter, the Deputy PM will literally divvy stuff up. ‘I want you to look after this.’
“There are a lot of different programs,
(such as)
Roads to Recovery and the Building Better Regions Fund.
“There are a lot of different aspects to the portfolio.”
Mr Hogan said he had not yet discussed details of his roles with Mr McCormack.
Mr Hogan will enjoy an extra five percent in remuneration, following his positional change.
Previously, as deputy speaker, he was receiving an extra 20 percent on top of his base salary, $211,250; the assistant minister position (also known as parliamentary secretary) attracts a 25 percent increase to the base salary.
The Nationals new deputy leader is Minister for Water Resources, Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management David Littleproud.