Alan Tudge has been appointed as the new Minister for Education and Youth following the Federal cabinet reshuffle before Christmas.
Replacing Dan Tehan, who is now Minister for Trade, Tudge brings a wide range of experience and insight to his new role.
“Alan Tudge will become Minister for Education and Youth with a clear brief of improving education outcomes and helping younger Australians navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison outlined.
“In recognition of the importance the Government places on driving down unemployment, Luke Howarth will become Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services.”
Australian Primary Principals Association (APPA) offered its thanks to Minister Tehan for his work as the Minister for Education.
“The APPA has enjoyed a positive working relationship with Minister Tehan in his nearly two years in the education portfolio and we greatly appreciate the support and recognition that the Minister has given to the education sector during his term,” APPA president Malcolm Elliott said.
“Minister Tehan’s awareness and attention to equity and fairness in education, particularly in a nation which has such a socially and geographically diverse student population as Australia, is respected across the sector.”
In welcoming Tudge to his new role, Elliott described education as a vital plank in the platform of nation building.
“The APPA looks forward to continuing on with the positive relationship it has enjoyed with the federal government and to working with the new Minister to delivering the world class education that every Australian student deserves.” he said.
In addition, Universities Australia chair professor Deborah Terry said the pandemic has hit Australia hard, with Universities Australia looking forward to working with Minister Tudge, ensuring students and future generations receive a world class education.”
“Australia will need even more new ideas, new skills and new jobs to power economic and community recovery. Universities are the engine rooms of that renewal,” Terry said.
“Universities thank outgoing Minister Dan Tehan for his consultative and highly accessible approach to the sector during a period of significant challenge for universities and the communities we serve.”