Bunbury MLA Don Punch has lost the water and climate resilience portfolios in the Premier’s latest Cabinet reshuffle, but will now head the State’s racing and gaming portfolio.

Premier Roger Cook announced on Sunday that Landsdale MLA Daniel Pastorelli would be joining his Cabinet in the wake of Secret Harbour MLA Paul Papalia’s resignation.

Mr Pastorelli’s new appointment to the frontbench sees him taking on the portfolio for mines, petroleum and exploration along with water, a portfolio previously held by Mr Punch.

Mr Punch’s climate resilience portfolio was passed to current Environment, Community Services and Homelessness Minister Matthew Swinbourn.

Mr Punch got the racing and gaming portfolio, previously held by Mr Papalia, and retained his portfolios of Aboriginal affairs and the South West.

In a statement, Mr Cook said his Government was “laser focused” on the delivering its priorities — jobs, health and housing.

“Underscoring those priorities is diversifying the WA economy so that it remains the strongest in the nation, and the best place in the world to get a quality job,” he said.

“In times like these, we need steady and experienced leadership and my Government is the safe pair of hands who will always put WA first.

“The portfolios I’ve announced today deliver a strong economic team that will ensure we can seize the many opportunities in front of us, and withstand current and future global challenges.”

Speaking to the Herald, Mr Punch said he was very pleased to have been entrusted with the racing and gaming portfolio, alongside his existing portfolios.

“These are important portfolios that make a real difference to communities across Western Australia,” he said.

“The racing and gaming sectors support jobs, contribute to local economies and play an important role in communities across the State.

“I’m looking forward to getting on with the job, working closely with industry, stakeholders and local communities to deliver positive outcomes for Western Australians.”

Mr Punch said it was privilege to serve as minister for water and climate resilience and to help elevate the importance of securing the State’s water future.

“WA is undergoing a significant water transition as our climate dries, and the Cook Labor Government’s investments in desalination, water recycling and replenishment will help ensure we remain well-placed to meet future challenges,” he said.

“I’m proud of what has been achieved in the portfolio, and I know this important work will continue as part of the Cook Labor Government’s broader agenda.”

Mr Punch said he welcomed Mr Pastorelli and new Cabinet secretary Divina D’Anna to Cabinet and said looked forward to working with them.

“My focus is now on delivering in the portfolios entrusted to me and contributing to the Cook Labor Government’s priorities of jobs, health and housing, while continuing to strengthen communities across our State,” he said.