Gladys Berejiklian promised the needs of regional NSW would be at the front and centre of her government’s focus as she was sworn in as Premier on Monday.
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Addressing the media for the first time as Premier, Ms Berejiklian said her government wanted to focus on local infrastructure across the state, not just the “mega projects” of Sydney.
The former Transport Minister and Treasurer said she understood the difference small things such as sealing a dirt road or adding a new hospital ward made to small rural communities.
Guyra-based Liberal MLC Scott MacDonald has known Ms Berejiklian for more than two decades and said she understood the pressures facing regional NSW.
“I have the utmost respect for her as a person – she is a quiet achiever and has a very strong policy brain.”
“In the party room she confirmed the dividends of the great economic management from the past six years would be shared equally across the state, and she was directly addressing the country Liberals.
“It's one thing to understand the issues facing regional NSW, but it’s another to have the war chest to tackle them, so I am very hopeful about what the next couple of years brings.”
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson welcomed the new Premier and hoped to see some of the government’s war chest go towards the significant projects in the region, like the Werris Creek water treatment plant, Gunnedah overpass and the Tamworth Sporting Centre of Excellence.
“It gives me great hope we will be able to not only get our fair share, but continue to invest in regional NSW,” Mr Anderson said.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall offered his warm congratulations to the new Premier and wasted no time inviting her to visit the electorate.
Mr Marshall told The Leader he was particularly encouraged by her remarks about the importance of country NSW, and looked forward to taking up a number of local issues with her in the coming months.
With the swearing in of a new Premier, all ministerial and parliamentary portfolios are on hold until a new cabinet is announced later this week.