Tuesday, 11 August 2026

 Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for Environment, Minister for Climate Action, Minister for the State Electricity Commission) (13:20): I wish to advise the house that there have been changes to the government’s ministries and the representing ministers in each chamber as well as the parliamentary secretaries. As has become the usual practice in the chamber, unless people would like me to read those out, I am happy just to have them circulated.

Members interjecting.

Jaclyn SYMES: President, with the house’s indulgence, in relation to the portfolios, I have energy and resources, climate action, environment and the State Electricity Commission; Minister Blandthorn has children and disability; Minister Stitt has health, mental health and ambulance services, as well as being the Special Minister of State; and Minister Erdogan has finance, government services, and casino, gaming and liquor regulation.

Melina Bath: On a point of order, President, as the outdoor recreation minister’s portfolio has vanished and the general orders of 7 August state that the Game Management Authority Act 2014 is jointly administered by the Minister for Environment and the Minister for Agriculture, could the minister please inform this house who is responsible and who would answer questions?

Jaclyn SYMES: Ms Bath, please direct any questions in relation to the former outdoor recreation portfolio to the Minister for Environment. The general order is being updated as we speak.

Nick McGowan: On a point of order, President, I understand that under the act it actually defers to the Minister for Ports and Freight. Is that not correct?

Jaclyn SYMES: As I indicated, for the former portfolio, it would be best to ask me in my capacity as Minister for Environment given that the general order is being updated. For the avoidance of doubt, anybody is welcome on related matters to come to the Leader of the Government, and I will facilitate answers.