The importance of our cities and urban affairs to the Turnbull Federal Government has been maintained with the appointment of the Federal Member for Hume, Mr Angus Taylor, as the new Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, with special responsibility for Cities and Digital Transformation.
Commenting on his appointments Mr Taylor said, “I am also delighted to have responsibility for cities. Our capital cities and regional cities struggle with affordability, amenity and congestion. This must be a priority for the Federal government, as a major investor in transport infrastructure.
“I am particularly delighted with this role given that the new boundaries of the Hume electorate span the fastest growing parts of outer Sydney, as well as the growing regional city of Goulburn. I see first-hand the growing pains of our cities.”
In announcing the appointment, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the roles given to Mr Taylor were “key, whole of government areas and they will continue to be driven through my leadership and my department into the future.”
The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) welcomed the appointment of Mr Taylor saying he comes highly credentialed to the position.
“The UDIA looks forward to working with the new Assistant Minister for Cities to ensure that cities are at the forefront of all policy debate within the Coalition Cabinet,” said Michael Corcoran, UDIA National President.
Mr Taylor’s appointment follows a cabinet reshuffle by the Prime Minister and the resignation late in 2015 of the Minister for Cities and the Built Environment Jamie Briggs following concerns about inappropriate conduct.
