Sector backs key federal government cabinet changes

Posted on 13 May 2025

By Greg Thom, journalist, Institute of Community Directors Australia

The charity and not-for-profit sector reacted positively to this week’s cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Among the changes, former environment minister Tanya Plibersek was moved into the social services portfolio.

Factional powerbroker Sam Rae was promoted to minister for aged care and seniors.

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) CEO Dr Jerry Nockles congratulated Plibersek on her appointment and the significance of her new role in addressing Australia’s most pressing social challenges.

“Minister Plibersek brings extraordinary experience, clear talent and tremendous energy to this vital role,” he said.

“Her demonstrated passion for social policy and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable Australians make her exceptionally well-suited to lead in this space.”

Nockles, who also welcomed the reappointment of Dr Andrew Leigh as charities minister, said the social services sector faced significant challenges.

These included housing affordability, cost-of-living pressures and increasing demand for services.

“Minister Plibersek’s proven track record of thoughtful policy development gives us great confidence in her ability to navigate these complex issues.”

“Minister Plibersek brings extraordinary experience, clear talent and tremendous energy to this vital role."

Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) CEO Dr Jerry Nockles.

Anglicare Australia meanwhile endorsed the appointment of Sam Rae as minister for aged care and seniors.

Anglicare Australia executive director Kasy Chambers said she welcomed the focus on seniors alongside aged care.

“This shows the government understands that aging with dignity goes beyond aged care and touches on issues that affect all older people – like housing, income and mental health.”

Chambers said now was a crucial time for the aged care system, with major reforms underway and a new rights-based Aged Care Act being rolled out.

“We look forward to working with minister Rae to support the transition to a new Act and make sure these changes deliver the quality care that older Australians deserve.”

Chambers also praised the reappointment of Mark Butler as Minister for Health and Aged Care, which she said was a sign of the government’s commitment to continuing reforms to aged care.

“We extend our thanks to (outgoing) minister Wells for working closely with older people, advocates, and the aged care sector to deliver a landmark Aged Care Act and lay the groundwork for long-overdue changes to the system,” said Chambers.

“We look forward to working with both Ministers Butler and Rae to deliver a better future for older Australians.”