But Liberal Senator Eric Abetz said he was confident older Tasmanians would be heard. 

Earlier in the week, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull made the announcement that Western Australian MP Ken Wyatt would step into the role of Aged Care Minister following a reshuffle of his Cabinet. 

Mr Wyatt has previously held the role of Assistant Health and Aged Care Minister. 

Senator Polley said while she had nothing against Mr Wyatt, she would like to see a more senior minister in the position. 

“This is a portfolio that needs an experienced minister with economic and social policy experience,” she said.

“This shows that the government does not prioritise the needs of older Australians.” 

Mr Abetz said he was confident the concerns of older Tasmanians would be listened to by the new minister. 

“The Tasmanian Liberal Senate team has already spoken with Health Minister Greg Hunt, Assistant Minister Ken Wyatt and their offices and I am absolutely confident that we will get a good hearing and continue to advance Tasmania’s interests,” Mr Abetz said. 

Mr Wyatt said previously that he was thrilled to see aged care had been given its own ministry. 

“Aged care is a partnership between the consumer, their carers, the providers, the policy makers, the government and the wider community and I look forward to be able to take on this new and crucial role in that partnership,” Mr Wyatt said. 

“Consultation with the sector has been a feature of aged care reform up until now and I will ensure consultation with the sector will continue to be a cornerstone for initiatives in this area.”

Mr Wyatt will also hold the Indigenous Health portfolio, with the two promotions making his the first Indigenous person to be in the ministry.