Willcox re-appointed to Fight for Future of Manufacturing in new-look Shadow Ministry
The industrial engine room of North Queensland has secured a direct line to the heart of the Opposition’s economic strategy following the re-appointment of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, to the Shadow Ministry.
As part of the new-look Coalition frontbench announced yesterday by Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, Mr Willcox returns to his role as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. He will work in close partnership with the Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Hastie, to drive a national agenda focused on domestic production and economic resilience.
The reshuffle follows a historic period of renewal for the Coalition: marked by a newly codified agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room and ensures regional voices are protected in the decision-making process.
Mr Willcox said he is eager to build on his existing work in the portfolio alongside Mr Hastie.
“I am honoured to continue my work in this space as part of the refreshed team led by Angus Taylor,” Mr Willcox said.
“Andrew Hastie and I are a determined duo: he understands the global strategic threats to our nation, and I understand the industrial muscle required here at home to meet them. Together, we are focused on a common goal: ensuring Australia is a nation that makes things again.”
Mr Willcox added that Paget, in the electorate of Dawson, is critical to both manufacturing and sovereign capability in our nation.
“It is where the engineering and maintenance expertise for the Bowen Basin is born; however, our local manufacturers are being pushed to the brink by the 13th interest rate rise under Labor and energy costs that are simply unsustainable.
“My return to this role is about standing up for those workshops and ensuring they have the competitive environment they need to thrive.”
Mr Willcox said he is excited by the new energy within the Coalition.
“The bond between the Liberal and National parties has never been more robust.
“We have moved past a period of internal challenge to emerge with a formal, written agreement that puts regional Australians in the driver’s seat.
“We have a more cohesive structure in place that ensures our policies are formed with common sense and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the people of regional Australia.”
Mr Willcox added that under the leadership of Angus Taylor, the Coalition is unified and ready to lead.
“We are tackling the cost-of-living crisis head-on and developing the practical, evidence-based policies required to move Australia forward.
“We aren’t just an opposition; we are a government-in-waiting that is ready to manufacture a stronger, more secure future for all Australians.”
Mr Willcox confirmed that a key priority for the coming months will be his planned manufacturing roundtable in Mackay: providing a direct platform for local industry leaders to brief the Shadow Ministry on the challenges of foreign dumping and escalating production costs.
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CAPTION
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is proud to be re-appointed as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability. Following the announcement of the new-look Coalition shadow ministry by Angus Taylor, Andrew is back in the portfolio and focused on backing the industries that build our nation.
Contact: Amanda Wright | Media & Communications Adviser
P | 07 4944 0662 M | 0455 456 705 E | Amanda.Wright@aph.gov.au