I have made some changes to the Whip arrangements for the Government.
I have appointed Mr Scott Buchholz MP as Chief Government Whip. Scott is a strong local member and is highly regarded within the party room.
Ms Nola Marino MP will continue in her role as Government Whip. Nola has been an effective Whip as well as a committed local member and strong contributor to the government.
Mr Andrew Nikolic AM CSC MP will also become a Government Whip. Andrew has made an outstanding start as a member of parliament. He has a distinguished military career and will take on this new role with enthusiasm.
I acknowledge and thank the Hon Philip Ruddock MP for his extraordinary contribution to our country, this government and the Liberal Party.
As Father of the House, Philip has given over four decades of service to the Australian Parliament and the Australian people. He was a senior minister throughout the life of the Howard government and was shadow cabinet secretary in opposition. Later this year, he will become the second longest serving parliamentarian in our history. No one has done more than Philip helping immigrants to feel at home in their new country and helping members of migrant communities to participate in our national life.
I look forward to his future contribution to the government and to our country. He remains an important counsellor for Coalition members of parliament and will continue to serve as Member for Berowra with distinction.
These changes will be in place for the next parliamentary sitting period.
13 February 2015