Following this morning’s swearing in ceremony at Government House in Canberra, we’re pleased to welcome new and returning portfolio leaders under Prime Minister the Hon Anthony Albanese MP‘s returning Government.
Great to have Senator the Hon Murray Watt, member of the Parliamentary Friends of Soil under the 47th Parliament, come into the role as Minister for the Environment. The Hon Julie Collins MP, also a member of the Parliamentary Friends of Soil, is returning as Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
We welcome Senator the Hon Tim Ayres in his new role as Minister for Industry and Science and congratulate the Hon Madeleine King MP as returning Minister for Resources. Soil, along with air and water, is one of our most valuable resources. Support from these ministers will help advocate the importance of soil science in Australia.
We also welcome the Hon Sussan Ley MP in her role as Leader of the Opposition.
We trust both Minister Collins and Senator Watt will continue their support for soil health and soil science and that Minister Ayres, Minister King and the Hon Sussan Ley will consider joining, as we work with our parliamentary colleagues and other stakeholders to reform the Parliamentary Friends of Soil group within the 48th Australian Parliament.
A big shout out to soil stalwart, the Hon Michael McCormack MP, for being a co-Chair since the group was established under the 46th Parliament in 2020, and for his willingness to consider continuing in the role.
We’d also like to acknowledge the leadership and guidance of our Patron and former National Soils Advocate, the Hon Penny Wensley AC, for her guidance and support in continuing the initiative that she helped to instigate.
The friendship group is an important non-partisan forum for parliamentarians to meet and interact with soil scientists and researchers, policymakers, farmers and land managers, industry representatives and stakeholder groups on matters relating to the health and maintenance of Australia’s soils.