Gold Coast MP Meaghan Scanlon is one of the big winners from the new Premier’s cabinet reshuffle, after being handed an expanded ministry.
The Member for Gaven will add Planning, Public Works and Local Government to her Housing portfolio.
Two of the ministries, Planning and Local Government were previously held by the Premier himself, while Ms Scanlon inherits Public Works from Mick de Brenni.
Steven Miles has acknowledged housing as one of the key issues impacting residents across the state but insists his government is committed to tackling the crisis.
“Meaghan will now have those planning powers and be able to work with local government to deliver even more,” Miles said.
“(It) really puts housing in one of the most senior roles in my government.”
Ms Scanlon welcomed her added responsibilities.
“This expanded portfolio gives me the levers I need to make sure we deliver more homes for Queensland,” Scanlon said.
The Premier highlighted Ms Scanlon’s status as a renter as he announced her new portfolios.
“She knows young people and what it’s like to be looking to rent, to experience rent increases, to be trying to save a deposit for a house, and so I think she’s an excellent appointment for this position.”
But the Opposition was quick to seize on the comparison.
“To infer Meaghan Scanlon could understand the pressure associated with rental increases and the ability to get accommodation when she is paid $370k and has a chauffeur … is insulting to Qlders desperate to get or keep a roof over their head,” Shadow Housing Minister Tim Mander posted on X.
Steven Miles will unveil the rest of his new cabinet on Monday.
