Ben Carroll names ministry, adds new artificial intelligence portfolio

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has unveiled his new cabinet, including a fresh portfolio focused on ethical and responsible artificial intelligence development. Anthony Carbines, formerly the Minister for Police, will now lead this ministry, alongside being appointed Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy. This move comes as the Ministry for Transport Infrastructure and Suburban Rail Loop has been eliminated.

Colin Brooks, a former ally of former premier Jacinta Allan, has taken over as Treasurer, replacing Jaclyn Symes who now heads the Department of Energy and Resources, alongside roles in climate action, environment, and the prevention of family violence. She retains her role as leader of the government in the Legislative Council.

The restructuring of the cabinet sees a focus on supporting Victorian workers, ensuring AI developments are ethical and responsible, and promoting innovative digital investment. Paul Edbrooke, the new Police Minister, will handle community safety, police resourcing, and emergency services.

In terms of economic development, major projects such as the Metro Tunnel, Level Crossing Removal Project, and the Suburban Rail Loop, which have been overseen by the Transport Infrastructure Ministry, will now fall under Sonya Kilkenny's purview, who will also oversee women and gender equality, skills and training, and First Peoples, as well as education.

Tim Richardson has been appointed as the Minister for Local Government, Consumer Affairs, and Renters. The government aims to reduce the size of the frontbench and deliver a more efficient and effective administration. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson criticized the changes, accusing Premier Ben Carroll of "shuffling the deck chairs on the Titanic" and distancing Labor from corruption allegations in the construction industry.