Australia is poised for a new Tourism Minister as Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck has stepped down in light of the uncertainty of his senate spot.
“I am extremely disappointed to have to relinquish my portfolio but I have to agree with the Prime Minister that the need to finalise a new team and the uncertainty relating to my Senate seat made it impossible to wait – the business of Government is much bigger than any individual,” Colbeck said in a statement.
“I have been very proud to have held the Tourism and International Education portfolio under Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.”
The new Assistant Minister for Trade,Tourism and Investment assigned is Keith Pitt, with the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment the Hon. Steven Ciobo.
The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has welcomed the new Federal Government Ministry and the opportunity to work with Pitt, and continuing to work with the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment the Hon. Steven Ciobo.
Tourism Accommodation Australia (TAA), has also welcomed the appointment of Ciobo as the new Minister representing the tourism sector in Federal Cabinet.
Welcoming the appointments, TAA Chair, and former Federal Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson, said it was essential for tourism to have a voice at the Cabinet table.
