Mr Birrell will work with Senator Johathon Duniam who was appointed as Shadow Health Minister and Senator Anne Ruston as Shadow Health Minister to develop policies for the sectors.
Regional education is close to Mr Birrell’s heart.
During his maiden speech to Parliament, he spoke about his own experience completing a degree in Agricultural Science and a Master of Business Administration at a regional university campus, without leaving the region.
In 2020, Mr Birrell was awarded a Churchill Fellowship and was able to observe world's best practice in co-operation between industry and secondary education and the possibilities for Australia.
“Living in a region with a strong manufacturing base led me to explore the disconnect between education and industry in Australia,” Mr Birrell said.
“Access and equity in education and health are important issues for regional communities and I welcome the opportunity to add a strong regional voice to policy considerations.
“I have long been an advocate for regional training of doctors and extending those offerings to nursing, midwifery and allied health.”
Mr Birrell said he would enter the role with an open mind, and a willingness to listen and explore new ideas.
“One of the key issues confronting regional communities is maintaining a strong workforce,” he said.
“We need to train and keep qualified people working in the regions, but we also need to focus on producing the workforce of the future.”
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