Anika Wells has been appointed Minister for Aged Care and Sport to the Albanese Cabinet, describing the role as a privilege. In her new capacity, she has pledged to continue building a stronger and fairer future for Australians while tackling critical challenges in aged care.
“Millions of older Australians and their families rely on our aged care sector,” Ms Wells shared in a release. “Our once-in-a-generation aged care reform will ensure all older Australians are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Highlighting achievements under her leadership, Ms Wells noted the implementation of key reforms, including ensuring a nurse is present in every aged care home, increasing the workforce’s capacity to provide more personalised care, and securing a historic wage increase for aged care workers. She also emphasised that significant work remains as the government moves to deliver the Aged Care Act. Ms Wells will collaborate with senior portfolio Minister Mark Butler to see these reforms through.
Cabinet reshuffle following Shorten’s retirement
Ms Wells’ promotion comes amid a significant cabinet reshuffle prompted by the early retirement of Bill Shorten. The former Labor leader, who will leave parliament after 17 years, vacates the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) portfolio. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Mr Shorten’s contributions, particularly his work on the NDIS, describing the role as requiring “passion, care, and the willingness to make tough decisions.”
Minister for Finance and Public Service Katy Gallagher will now oversee Government Services. At the same time, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth will take charge of the NDIS portfolio, aligning it with the newly created foundational support system for people with disabilities. Early Childhood Minister Anne Aly will assist Ms Rishworth in this expanded role.
“There are millions of additional hours of care being provided to older Australians who deserve to live their later years with dignity and respect.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
As the reshuffled cabinet prepares to be sworn in on Monday, Ms Wells and her colleagues have pledged to advance critical national priorities, from reforming aged care to strengthening the NDIS and ensuring Australia’s sporting success on the global stage.
