New Shadow Cabinet Appointments

Media Release | 15 February 2026

Basil Zempilas MLA
Leader of the Opposition

Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas has announced changes to the Opposition Shadow Cabinet.

Shadow Treasurer Sandra Brewer will take on the Housing portfolio, formerly held by David Bolt.
David Bolt retains his Environment and Climate, Science and Innovation, and Homelessness portfolios and adds Commerce from Nationals MLA Scott Leary.

Scott Leary will be the new Shadow Heritage Minister, as well as retaining his Tourism responsibilities.
“Sandra has a background as the head of the WA Property Council and firsthand experience from her family’s building business and will build on David Bolt’s comprehensive work over the past 11 months,” Mr Zempilas said.

“We are in the worst housing crisis in the state’s history and Sandra’s in-depth understanding of housing and the issues being faced by West Australians wanting to buy or rent a home will be invaluable.

“With his breadth of local government and small business experience, David will take on the Commerce portfolio and focus on championing a Western Australian economy that backs our workers and businesses, protects consumers, and delivers for communities.

“The Heritage portfolio currently held by Liam Staltari will go to Scott Leary. Scott is the Member for Albany, so in Albany’s bicentenary year, Heritage is a great fit.

“After nine years of Labor, things are getting worse. We are the wealthiest state in the nation, but the economy is not rewarding hard working West Australians.

“This Opposition team will hold Roger Cook and his tired Labor team to account. People are sick of the announcements and excuses; they want action and delivery.”

Ms Brewer said the Cook Labor Government should be ashamed the dream of owning a home was slipping away, particularly for young people.

“At a time when the state has record revenues through mining royalties and increased taxation, it is unconscionable that Treasurer Rita Saffioti refuses to provide stamp duty relief for West Australian home buyers that could save them thousands of dollars,” she said.

ENDS

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