Albanese Labor Cabinet Sworn In

Family members joined MPs during the swearing in ceremony.
Albanese Labor Cabinet Sworn In
Australia's re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (L) shakes hands with Governor General Sam Mostyn (R) after taking his oath at Government House in Canberra, Australia on May 13, 2025. Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images
Naziya Alvi Rahman
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Anthony Albanese has been sworn in for a second term as Australia’s prime minister during a formal ceremony at Government House in Canberra on the morning of May 13.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn administered the oath, with Albanese taking the affirmation in the presence of his fiancée, Jodie Haydon, and son Nathan.

In keeping with constitutional procedure, Albanese first tendered his resignation before being formally reinstated.

Members of his new frontbench followed in succession, many arriving with their partners and children for the occasion. Labor red was the dominant colour of the day, worn by several ministers including Penny Wong.

Defence Minister Richard Marles arrived with his son Sam, a professional MMA fighter. Wong, the foreign affairs minister, was joined by her daughter, while Minister Mark Butler was seen holding his young son.
Several MPs recited their oaths on bibles, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke using the same large family Bible from 1880 that was purchased by his Irish great-grandfather.

Albanese Pledges to Seize ‘Extraordinary Opportunity’

Following Labor’s election win—delivering 93 seats and the largest caucus in federal history— Albanese spoke of a “clear mandate” for reform and renewal.

“This result presents an extraordinary opportunity for ministers, but for the entire caucus going forward,” he said.

“We have an ambitious agenda to change this country for the better. I am deeply humbled by the trust that has been placed in us, and we won’t take it for granted.”

Australia's re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (front 5th L) and Australia's Governor General Sam Mostyn (front 4th L) pose for a group picture with his cabinet members after a oath-taking ceremony at Government House in Canberra, Australia on May 13, 2025. (Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images)
Australia's re-elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (front 5th L) and Australia's Governor General Sam Mostyn (front 4th L) pose for a group picture with his cabinet members after a oath-taking ceremony at Government House in Canberra, Australia on May 13, 2025. Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images

Key Changes in Cabinet Portfolios

While most senior ministers retained their portfolios, including Penny Wong (foreign affairs), Jim Chalmers (treasurer), Don Farrell (trade), and Chris Bowen (climate and energy), there were a few notable reshuffles.

Significant movements include shifting Tanya Plibersek from the environment portfolio to the smaller social services one, with Senator Murray Watt now taking over environment and water.

Former Communications Minister Michelle Rowland will now take on the office of the attorney-general, replacing Mark Dreyfus.

Anika Wells meanwhile will take on communications and oversee sport.

Anne Aly steps into the dual role of minister for small business and international development, as well as multicultural affairs. Tim Ayres joins the cabinet, replacing Ed Husic, and will lead the industry, innovation and science portfolio.

Malarndirri McCarthy retains her role as minister for Indigenous Australians.

Naziya Alvi Rahman
Naziya Alvi Rahman
Author
Naziya Alvi Rahman is a Canberra-based journalist who covers political issues in Australia. She can be reached at [email protected].