Labor MPs pick up new frontbench jobs

Sydney MP Linda Burney is among a number of federal Labor figures to have picked up new responsibilities on the party's front bench as veteran MP Jenny Macklin prepares to retire.

Ms Burney has been appointed Labor's families and social services spokeswoman, while Ed Husic will tend to human services and Terri Butler will look after employment services and youth affairs, the party announced on Tuesday.

Senators Jenny McAllister and Louise Pratt have also been appointed assistant shadow ministers.