SENATOR DEAN SMITH
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER TO THE SHADOW TREASURER
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR THE COST OF LIVING
LIBERAL SENATOR FOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA
18 February 2026
APPOINTMENT TO THE SHADOW MINISTRY
It is an honour to have been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister to the Shadow Treasurer and Shadow Assistant Minister for the Cost of Living by the Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor.
These portfolios are at the heart of the challenges facing Australians, with cost-of-living pressures weighing heavily on households, small businesses and retirees across the country.
Under the Albanese Government, Australians are experiencing sustained inflation, rising interest rates and escalating household costs.
Despite repeated promises, the reality for many households has been higher mortgage repayments, skyrocketing rents, increased energy bills and growing financial uncertainty.
Today, it was confirmed that real wages have fallen for the first time since September 2023.
It is clear that restoring economic discipline and tackling the drivers of inflation must be a national priority.
That means responsible government spending, policies that support productivity and growth, and a clear focus on easing pressure on household budgets.
I look forward to working closely with the Shadow Treasurer and colleagues across the Coalition to hold Labor to account for its economic mismanagement and to develop practical policies that strengthen the economy and lift living standards.
Western Australia plays a critical role in the national economy, and I will continue to ensure the perspectives of WA households, workers and businesses are strongly represented in the national debate.
My new position is an opportunity to continue advocating for policies that restore confidence, reward aspiration and ensure Australians can once again feel secure about their economic future.
