With a Victorian election looming, Premier Daniel Andrews has tweaked his frontbench with a new face and a focus on early childhood education and investment.
Among the changes, Niddrie MP Ben Carroll was promoted to the government's frontbench to replace former industry and employment minister Wade Noonan, who earlier this month announced he would retire from politics at the 2018 election.
Mr Carroll was elected to his Niddrie seat at a by-election in 2012 and has since served as parliamentary secretary for justice.
Mr Andrews congratulated his new minister and said Mr Carroll would continue to manage the transition of the auto industry.
"Ben Carroll will do a tremendous job fighting for Victorian workers and supporting our industries and businesses," the premier said in a statement on Monday.
Other changes include Treasurer Tim Pallas taking on the resources portfolio, and Philip Dalidakis becoming the minister for trade and investment, a name change from his previous title as innovation and trade minister.
Families and Children and Youth Affairs Minister Jenny Mikakos will also add a new portfolio of early childhood education.
Mr Andrews said the new ministry strengthened the "focus on the things that matter most - creating jobs, standing up for Victorians and ensuring every child has every opportunity to reach their potential".
In another recent change, Natalie Hutchins took over as minister for women and the prevention of family violence following the death of Fiona Richardson in August.
