Premier of Western Australia (WA) Colin Barnett has said that his Cabinet reshuffle will show improvements to the state's economy with an emphasis on tourism.
In order to do this, Mr Barnett will be giving up his State Development portfolio in a move that he hopes will give his government a foot on the electoral ladder, reports The West Australian.
By doing so, he is the first premier in over 20 years to handle the tourism industry while he is running the state.
Tourism is set to come under the spotlight and will benefit from huge investments in Elizabeth Quay, the City Link and Perth Stadium.
While he is handling and supporting tourism, the state development, for which he has been responsible, will be given to member of parliament for the Nedlands Bill Marmion.
Speaking on the general changes to his Cabinet Mr Barnett said: "The Cabinet puts a focus on the key portfolios, which will be instrumental in broadening our economy - tourism, state development, agriculture and food and fisheries.
"It showcases the breadth and depth within the Parliamentary Liberal Party that we are able to make so many changes while invigorating the Cabinet team."
By leaving behind the mining and resources sector, it's clear that Mr Barnett appreciates how important the tourism industry is to West Australia.
His choice to do this sees WA now on the same path that the Victoria state took to improve its tourism industry and it's hope that the sector will flourish under Mr Barnett's guidance.
Evan Hall, chief executive of the Tourism Council for WA, commented that Mr Barnett's choice as Premier to manage the tourism sector was pivotal, as this is "the key industry that is going to keep jobs in the state".
Mr Hall believes that once the new regime is underway, it will filter into the environmental, art and transport sectors "to get a focus on tourism outcomes".
