Australian PM-elect Tony Abbott unveils new ministry

Melbourne, Sept 16: Australian prime minister-elect Tony Abbott introduced his ministers Monday, saying it is one of the most experienced incoming ministries in Australian history.

West Australian Senator Mathias Cormann has been promoted in the cabinet as the finance minister.

Accoring to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Andrew Robb, who was the coalition's spokesman for finance in opposition, has been named the trade minister.

Incoming deputy prime minister Warren Truss will be responsible for infrastructure and regional development.

Julie Bishop, who has been appointed foreign affairs minister, is the only woman in the cabinet.

Abbott also nominated Liberal Party stalwart Bronwyn Bishop to the post of speaker of the new parliament.

The new ministry could be sworn in Tuesday.

Philip Ruddock, the longest serving member of parliament, would be the chief government whip, said the prime minister-elect.

"I can think of no better person to act as tutor-in-chief to our new members than Philip Ruddock, the father of the house, a man of unrivalled experience, knowledge, insight, judgement and character," he said.

Those demoted from their roles in opposition include Senator Ian Macdonald and Brisbane MP Teresa Gambaro.

Other positions include Joe Hockey as treasurer, Malcolm Turnbull as communications minister, Peter Dutton as health minister, Christopher Pyne as education minister, Scott Morrison as minister for immigration and border protection, and Greg Hunt as environment minister.

Barnaby Joyce will take the portfolio of agriculture.

The new ministry could be sworn in Tuesday.

IANS