February 17, 2026 – Deputy Liberal leader Jane Hume and Goldstein MP Tim Wilson are positioned to spearhead the opposition’s economic agenda in Angus Taylor’s restructured frontbench.
Economic Portfolio Overhaul
Angus Taylor plans to announce his updated team in Sydney this afternoon, four days after ousting Opposition Leader Sussan Ley. He has started informing MPs of promotions and demotions.
Sources close to the matter confirm Tim Wilson will step into the role of shadow treasurer. Jane Hume, who selects her portfolio as deputy leader, will oversee productivity and growth initiatives.
Both figures represent classic free-market moderates from inner-city Melbourne electorates. Hume steps away from the finance portfolio she shared with Taylor in the prior Peter Dutton-led opposition, which drew criticism for its economic strategy amid the Coalition’s defeat.
Key Portfolio Changes
Senator James Paterson prepares to move from finance to defence, the position Taylor vacated upon ascending to leadership. Paterson proved instrumental in mobilizing support for Taylor’s takeover.
Retentions and Promotions
Ted O’Brien is set to maintain his shadow cabinet seat, despite his prior role as Ley’s deputy. Moderate senator Andrew Bragg, a Ley ally, will retain his position as well.
Taylor fielded calls to appointees and those affected into Tuesday lunchtime, ahead of the mid-afternoon reveal.
Firm Ley supporters—including Andrew Wallace, Alex Hawke, Scott Buchholz, Melissa Price, Jason Wood, and Paul Scarr—face uncertainty in holding shadow cabinet roles.
Expected promotions include Andrew Hastie, possibly for industry or energy; Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Sarah Henderson, Tony Pasin, and rising MPs such as Phil Thompson, Matt O’Sullivan, Aaron Violi, and Simon Kennedy.
