The Hunter has scored a seat at the table in Anthony Albanese’s new ministry.

Shortland MP Pat Conroy has been appointed Minister for Defence Industry, as well as Minister for International Development and the Pacific.

He’s holding on to the latter portfolio from the Shadow Ministry, where he also served as a Minister Assisting for Defence and Climate Change.

Mr Conroy says it’s a real privilege for himself, and a great move for the region.

“Defence has got a huge potential to be a real boon in terms of jobs in our region,” he said.

“We’ve got great expertise, not just at Williamtown. Obviously Forgacs at Tomago helped build modules for the Air Warfare Destroyer. We built the minesweepers and so forth.

“We’ve got a real opportunity to build on that excellence.”

Image credit: Pat Conroy.