A bid to bring "fresh energy" into the NSW cabinet has left the door open for Albury MP Justin Clancy to gain a portfolio, with one Coalition colleague describing him as more than worthy.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The removal of three long-serving ministers in a Cabinet reshuffle emerged at the weekend but NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet was yet to make a formal announcement at the time of publication.
"It's important that we have renewal and that the government refreshes," he told media.
"This is an opportunity for maintaining experience ... whilst at the same time bringing fresh energy and new ideas into the cabinet."
Mr Clancy told The Border Mail yesterday he had "no visibility" regarding the reshuffle.
"I look forward to the announcement from the Premier and I anticipate that announcement will be made shortly," he said.
"It's a privilege to be in Parliament and any opportunity to make further contributions is a privilege as well, but I'm realistic and I'll continue to do what I can to work with my community.
"The rest is for others (to decide).
"I want to acknowledge the outgoing ministers, and in particular, Minister Mel Pavey.
"I've been working closely with Minister Pavey and her team over over several months now ... we've certainly been prosecuting the case for social affordable housing for the Albury community.
Ms Pavey, who was "disappointed" to be told on Saturday she wouldn't be part of the newly formed cabinet, referenced Albury in her statement.
"I respect the decision made," she said.
"I hope the incoming Minister for Housing continues to transform old, tired social housing estates across the state including in Coffs Harbour, Wagga Wagga and Albury.
"The record amount of public housing being constructed is a legacy I am deeply proud of."
Upper House MP Wes Fang described this Cabinet reshuffle as one of the most "tightly held".
"I'm not even sure it will be announced today," he told The Border Mail.
Mr Fang believed Mr Clancy would "absolutely be in with a chance" for a portfolio.
"He's one of the brightest members of Parliament that I know; he's very capable in all aspects of," he said.
"But I'm a Nat, he's a Lib; I know our party holds very close the the ability to nominate our members to Cabinet and I would imagine that the Liberal Party would do the same, so that's just my personal observation of Justin.
"He's really demonstrated his ability to get across all issues, so in my mind, he would be an ideal candidate.
"Not only are they looking to increase the number of younger people ... I believe they are looking to put more women into Cabinet."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Mr Fang asked recognised the work of Ms Pavey, who took on a combined water, property and housing portfolio in April, 2019.
Major projects in her time included the $11 million upgrade of Riverina Highway and a $6.17 million rest area between Table Top and Mullengandra.
In the latest NSW budget, there was $1.96 million for social housing upgrades and new building works.
Two three-bedroom homes on Kestrel Street fast-tracked under the Low Rise Housing Diversity Code were the most recent addition to social housing in Albury.