PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Australian resources sector has welcomed the appointment of former Assistant Treasurer Josh Frydenberg as the new Resources and Energy Minister, as Premier Malcolm Turnbull appointed a new Cabinet.

Frydenberg on Monday replaced former Industry and Science Minister Ian Macfarlane as the minister responsible for the resources industry.

The Western Australian Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME) has welcomed the appointment, with CME CEO Reg Howard-Smith saying the new Ministry saw strong performers appointed to key positions of interest.

“Minister Frydenberg should maintain a focus on reducing the cost of doing business and increasing exploration activity in order for the Western Australian resources sector to continue to grow and operate competitively in the global marketplace,” he commented.

He also paid tribute to Macfarlane, saying the sector had appreciated his understanding of the issues faced by players in the industry.

The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (Appea) welcomed the appointment on behalf of the Australian oil and gas industry, while also acknowledging Macfarlane’s contribution.

“Since 2001, Macfarlane has been a tireless, passionate champion of the resources sector in general and the gas industry in particular. He leaves office with an impressive record of achievement. The industry thanks him for his unstinting support,” said Appea CEO Malcolm Roberts.

The Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has also paid tribute to Macfarlane, praising him as a staunch and strong voice for the resources sector and for Queensland.

“Macfarlane was an incredibly hard-working Minister with whom we enjoyed an excellent and productive relationship for well over a decade,” said QRC CEO Michael Roche.

“He worked hard to build bipartisan support with Shadow Ministers and tried to depoliticise issues in the resources sector and achieved many positive outcomes for the industry during a difficult and challenging period.

“He consulted widely, held an open mind on issues and was never afraid to get his boots dusty.”

Roche, meanwhile, welcomed the appointment of Frydenbeg and the reappointment of Greg Hunt as Minister for Environment.