Cabinet promotions for Nationals MPs

CABINET POSTS FOR NATIONALS MPS

* Darren Chester returns to cabinet, with his portfolios of veterans' affairs and defence personnel given a higher status.

* Keith Pitt promoted to cabinet as minister for resources, water and northern Australia.

* Nationals deputy David Littleproud regains the agriculture portfolio, along with drought and emergency management.

* Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack continues on as minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development.

POSITIONS IN OUTER MINISTRY

* Andrew Gee takes responsibility for regional education and decentralisation, and will assist the minister for trade and investment.

* Michelle Landry to serve as assistant minister for northern Australia and continue as assistant minister for children and families.

* Mark Coulton continues as minister for regional health, regional communication and local government.