Bishop returns to front bench

Former Aged Care Minister, Bronwyn Bishop has been recalled to the Liberal Party’s front bench as Shadow Minister for Seniors.

Opposition Leader, Tony Abbot promoted Ms Bishop to the new role following his defeat of Malcolm Turnbull in last week’s leadership challenge.

At a press conference in Canberra, Mr Abbott alluded to the 67-year-old MP’s age.

“I don’t know anyone with more energy than Bronwyn Bishop and in working with seniors she will be one of them as well as someone who is working for them,” Mr Abbot said.
Ms Bishop has been appointed to a new policy portfolio in an attempt to engage with older Australians more actively.

“Rather than deliver services through layers of bureaucratic channels, I believe senior Australians need a dedicated advocate for them,” said Mr Abbot.

“Bronwyn will ensure seniors are at the forefront of what we do, right across government. In this important role, Bronwyn will take on policy challenges such as pension adequacy, the interests of self-funded retirees, mature-aged employment, community security and active living.”

Ms Bishop was the Aged Care Minister in 2000 during the ‘kerosene bath’ scandal at Riverside Nursing Home in Melbourne. She was dumped from the ministry following the 2001 election.

Mr Abbot has also promoted NSW Senator, Concetta Fierravanti-Wells to the position of Shadow Minister for Ageing.

In her maiden speech to parliament, Mrs Fierravanti-Wells highlighted the importance of volunteering in the community sector.

“Throughout my community service, I have come to value highly the contribution of volunteers in Australia, whether this be in the family, amongst the sick, the disabled, the young or the aged,” she said.

Mrs Fierravanti-Wells will replace Margaret May who recently announced that she would not contest the next election.

Mr Abbot praised Mrs May for her work for older Australians.

“A tireless advocate for senior Australians, I thank Margaret for her service to the Liberal Party and hard work,” he said.