Libs unveil new shadow cabinet

THE Victorian Opposition has unveiled its shadow cabinet weeks after its state election loss to Labor.

Liberal Leader John Pesutto’s new frontbench includes Sandringham MP Brad Rowswell named as shadow Treasurer and David Southwick maintaining his post as deputy leader.

Mr Rowswell was not previously in the shadow cabinet.

Mr Pesutto also takes on the role of opposition spokesman for multicultural affairs.

“This new shadow cabinet shows that we have a lot of renewal in our party, a lot of up-and-coming talent that I want to put to work straight away,” Mr Pesutto said.

“These are people who have worked in their fields, [are] very accomplished in their fields, and have a lot to offer the Victorian people, not just the Victorian parliament.”

Berwick MP Brad Battin, who was up to succeed former Liberal leader Matthew Guy, maintains his role as opposition spokesman for police, but also takes on youth justice, crime prevention and criminal justice reform in the new layout.

Mr Guy was considering what he wanted to do was considering what he wanted to do and even though he was not in the shadow cabinet, Mr Pesutto said would seek his counsel.

“I certainly hope that Matthew will remain because I think he’s got a big role to play,” Mr Pesutto said.

Ryan Smith, who was also a leadership contender before he withdrew and threw his support behind Mr Battin, did not make the new shadow cabinet.

It was a tough call to leave him out, but Mr Pesutto said it was important to maximise every opportunity to introduce new members.

David Davis, who previously held the shadow Treasurer role, has been demoted but stays on the frontbench as opposition special minister of state and arts and creative industries spokesman.

Georgie Crozier is leader of the opposition in the Legislative Council and keeps her health and ambulance services portfolios.

Deputy opposition leader in the Legislative Council Matt Bach will take on education, and Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence’s responsibilities have been expanded to include manufacturing, industry, innovation, skills and training, employment and industrial relations.

Brighton MP James Newbury retains his environment, climate change and equality portfolios but takes on the additional role of the Legislative Assembly’s leader of the opposition business.

The newly elected member for Kew Jess Wilson becomes opposition spokeswoman for finance, economic reform and regulation, and home ownership and housing affordability.

“As someone who is a young person who has attempted to buy a house over the last few years and took years to be able to do that, I understand just how hard it can be to get into the housing market,” Ms Wilson said.

Nepean MP Sam Groth – also newly elected – becomes opposition spokesman for tourism, sport, events and youth.

Newly elected South Eastern Metropolitan Region member Ann-Marie Hermans becomes the opposition’s spokeswoman for emergency services, WorkCover and the TAC.

The Nationals have added an extra shadow minister, Tim McCurdy, as they were entitled to because of their increased numbers in the party room.

Mr McCurdy takes on the water and consumer affairs portfolios.

– BY CASSANDRA MORGAN/ AAP