Carol Brown Steps Aside From Ministerial Duties

Over the weekend, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced changes to ministerial arrangements following the resignations of Minister Linda Burney, Minister Brendan O’Connor and Assistant Minister Senator Carol Brown.

Senator Brown has served as the Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport since the 2022 Labor election win.

Whilst she will continue to serve as a Senator for Tasmania, Senator Brown has cited the need to prioritise her health as the reason for stepping back from her Assistant Ministerial duties.

Under Brown’s leadership there has been significant Government focus on road safety and heavy vehicle road safety, particularly around implementing measures to save lives and improve the safety of Australia’s roads.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated colleagues and stakeholders committed to making a positive impact on our nation’s future,” she says.

“However, after careful consideration, I have to prioritise my health in order to continue serving my constituents and the community effectively.”

Senator Carol Brown on a visit to HVIA member Robuk Engineering earlier this year

Albanese says Senator Brown has done a “terrific job” as Assistant Minister.

HVIA thanks Senator Brown for her service, particularly noting her work on the Safer Freight Vehicles package, Black Spot projects and funding for road safety grants.

HVIA CEO Todd Hacking sent well wishes to Senator Brown and hoped for a speedy recovery, noting the impact she had in the role.

“Carol was approachable from day one and was always available to HVIA and its members. She loved getting out on site and learning about the industry and was always particularly drawn to the apprentices – always providing support and encouragement for a long and successful career in the heavy vehicle industry,” he says.

The Senator was a regular attendee of HVIA events, including most recently the Executive Club in Melbourne.

There is currently no replacement Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport. HVIA will be advocating for the reinstatement of this position.