Ed Husic pledges ‘constructive’ role from backbench after scathing criticism of Marles
After being dropped from cabinet last week, former minister Ed Husic has vowed to adopt a “constructive” role on the backbench—even as he launched a scathing public attack on Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.
“I want to play a constructive role,” Husic told Guardian Australia, signaling that his departure from the ministry wouldn’t silence him on matters he considers important. Now free from the constraints of cabinet solidarity, Husic said he plans to speak more openly, especially on issues that resonate with his community and the broader public.
In a fiery interview on ABC’s Insiders on Sunday morning, Husic accused Marles—a leading figure in Labor’s right faction—of engineering his removal from cabinet, branding him a “factional assassin.” He also suggested his outspoken stance on Israel contributed to his dismissal.
“I won’t speak on everything,” Husic said later that day, “but I will speak on the important things—the issues that matter to my community and to the country. Historically, robust debate has been part of the success of long-standing Labor governments. That tradition can continue today.”
Husic went on to say that the prime minister should have stepped in to prevent his removal, pointing to what he described as Marles’ overt factional maneuvering to reshape the ministry.
“What we’ve seen is naked ambition and a deputy prime minister using factional power like a club,” he said. “Australians expect a statesman in that role—not a factional assassin.”
Neither Marles nor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded publicly to Husic’s remarks on Sunday. Alongside Husic, former attorney general Mark Dreyfus was also dropped, with both believed to have been sidelined due to factional dynamics within Labor’s NSW right, which was overrepresented in cabinet.
Husic stated that he had stepped aside voluntarily, rather than challenge colleagues in an internal ballot. Dreyfus, based in Victoria, was reportedly removed to make room for newer and younger MPs.
The reshuffle reflects a balancing act within Albanese’s highly experienced cabinet, many of whom served in the Gillard and Rudd governments from 2010 to 2013. Familiar names such as Chris Bowen, Mark Butler, Penny Wong, Tanya Plibersek, and Julie Collins continue to play prominent roles.
Ahead of the 2022 election, Albanese pledged to retain several senior ministers in their portfolios—including Marles, Jim Chalmers, Katy Gallagher, Penny Wong, and Don Farrell.
New cabinet appointments are expected to be confirmed Monday, with ministers likely receiving calls Sunday afternoon. The swearing-in is scheduled for Tuesday at Government House.
Among those tipped for elevation is NSW MP Michelle Rowland, a former senior lawyer, seen as a potential replacement for Dreyfus as attorney general. Industrial relations minister and solicitor Murray Watt is another contender.
WA MP Anne Aly may also gain a cabinet role, with Western Australia’s strong support crucial to Labor’s 2022 victory. Senior figures such as Mark Butler and Jason Clare may shift to new portfolios, while Daniel Mulino—a Victorian MP with a background in economics and a Yale education—could be named assistant treasurer.
There’s also speculation that Tanya Plibersek might be moved out of the environment portfolio as part of the reshuffle.
