Premier Malinauskas to Unveil New Cabinet Lineup Today Following Senior Resignations

Premier Malinauskas to Unveil New Cabinet Lineup Today

Adelaide's political landscape is set for a major shift this Monday, 16 February 2026, as Premier Peter Malinauskas prepares to announce a significant reshuffle of the South Australian State Cabinet. The changes come at a critical time for the government, with the state election just five weeks away and following the high-profile resignations of two of the administration's most senior figures.

The reshuffle follows the weekend's news that Deputy Premier Susan Close and Treasurer Stephen Mullighan will retire from politics at the March election. Both ministers, who have been central to the Labor government’s leadership for over a decade, informed the Premier of their intentions yesterday. The vacancies at the top of the Ministry have necessitated an immediate reorganization to ensure stability leading into the campaign period.

Reshuffle to Focus on Election Strategy

Today’s Cabinet meeting, the first since the resignations were made public, will likely focus on assigning new responsibilities for the Climate, Environment, and Water portfolios previously held by Dr. Close, as well as the Treasury and Police portfolios managed by Mr. Mullighan. Political analysts suggest the Premier will use this opportunity to elevate fresh talent to the frontbench, signaling a "renewal" of the team as they seek a second term in office.

• Portfolio Vacancies: The reshuffle must fill critical roles in Treasury, Police, and Environment.
• Election Readiness: The new team will lead the government’s final push toward the March 21 poll.
• Cabinet Meeting: The weekly Monday session will finalize the transition before the public announcement later today.

AUKUS Shipyard Investment Dominates Agenda

Beyond the internal personnel changes, the State Cabinet is expected to discuss the immediate implementation of the $3.9 billion federal investment in the Osborne submarine shipyard. Announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his visit to Adelaide yesterday, the "down payment" is intended to accelerate the construction of the yard and a new skills and training center.

The project is projected to create approximately 10,000 jobs in South Australia, a figure Premier Malinauskas described as "structurally significant" for the state's economy. Cabinet will today review the state’s logistical commitments to the project, including the coordination of technical colleges and infrastructure upgrades required to support the massive scale of the AUKUS shipbuilding program.

While local government activities remain quiet today—with the City of Adelaide council and its committees not scheduled to meet until Tuesday—the focus remains squarely on North Terrace as the State Government reorganizes its ranks for the final weeks of the parliamentary term.