Member-elect for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, has been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Shadow Assistant Minister for Resources, with Nationals Leader David Littleproud returned as the Shadow Minister for Agriculture.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley announced her Shadow Ministry today after officially reforming the Coalition by striking a formal agreement with Mr Littleproud to reconnect.

Angie Bell was named the Shadow Environment Minister, and Ross Cadell the Shadow Water Minister, as well as Fisheries and Forestry.

Kevin Hogan continues as the Shadow Trade Minister.

Federal Nationals leader David Littleproud and Member-elect for Parkes Jamie Chaffey.

Mr Littleproud said the team has the skill, dedication and energy to improve the lives of regional Australians.

“The new team that I lead will work every day to give regional Australians hope and a future,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Our priority is the third of Australians who live outside capital cities. I look forward to working with The Nationals’ inner and outer Shadow Cabinet, who I know are the best possible team to hold Labor to account and achieve outcomes that regional Australians deserve.

“I am proud that my team has the lived experience, passion and drive, as well as a diversity of ideas – something that The Nationals welcome.”

The Nationals will play a crucial role in the economy, with Cowper MP Pat Conaghan announced as Shadow Assistant Treasurer and Shadow Minister for Financial Services, while Dawson MP Andrew Willcox has been announced as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability.

“Regional Australia is the backbone of this nation and our economy is underpinned by the wealth created from the regions in mining, industry and agriculture,” Mr Littleproud said.

“It is therefore appropriate and about time that regional Australians have a bigger say on a broader range of issues.

“When regional Australia does well, all of Australia does well. That’s why the team that I lead will now look forward, not back, and focus on the future, in the best interests of Australia.”

National Farmers’ Federation president David Jochinke said he looked forward to working with the Coalition team on behalf of Australian farmers and regional communities.

“The Federal Election is now behind us. As always, we will work closely with the Federal Government, Opposition and crossbench to make sure farmers are at the heart of policy discussions,” Mr Jochinke said.

“We’ll continue to progress the goals of our Members, farmers and regional communities.

“NFF is intent on reaching our 2030 Roadmap goal of turning Australian agriculture into a $100 billion industry.

“This vision has had strong bipartisan support since its inception, and we look forward to working with elected members of all stripes to reach that goal,” Mr Jochinke said.