Tony Abbott is set to unveil his frontbench, as Labor’s national executive meets to discuss the leadership contest between Anthony Albanese and Bill Shorten.
Prime Minister-elect Tony Abbott is expected to announce a largely unchanged team on Monday, with the new ministers to be sworn in at Government House in Canberra possibly on Wednesday.
He will need a replacement for shadow innovation minister Sophie Mirabella – one of just two women in the coalition cabinet – after she asked Mr Abbott not to consider her for a spot on the frontbench.
However, Senator Ian Macdonald has revealed he is no longer on the frontbench.
“What should have been one of the proudest days of my life has turned into one of the worst,” he said in a statement released.
“The ecstasy of a new government and success in the North has turned a little sad with a phone call from Tony Abbott saying he has no room for me in the new ministry.”
Liberal Party elder Bronwyn Bishop is set to become Speaker of the new parliament.
Meanwhile, Labor’s national executive will meet to determine whether debates between Mr Shorten and Mr Albanese over the leadership would be just for party members or open to the public.
Senior Labor figures have dismissed speculation that the eventual leader’s authority could be undermined by the new ballot process that gives equal say to caucus and rank-and-file members.
