Deputy PM promotes Chester in reshuffle

New Nationals leader Michael McCormack has rewarded two key supporters of his leadership bid by returning them to the ministry.

Victorian Darren Chester will take over the veterans affairs portfolio, which Mr McCormack is vacating to take up infrastructure and transport.

It comes less than three months after his controversial dumping as infrastructure minister by former leader Barnaby Joyce late last year.

Keith Pitt, who was also demoted to the backbench in Mr Joyce's controversial reshuffle, will be assistant minister to the deputy prime minister.

"I am fortunate to be leader of a party with so many talented people, but ultimately my focus was on maintaining stability so the government can get on with the job of delivering for the nation," Mr McCormack said in a statement.

Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives Mark Coulton will join the ministry as assistant minister for trade, while Damian Drum and Luke Hartsuyker have been demoted.

The changes will be made official during a ceremony in Canberra on Monday.

Senior MPs who were strong supporters of Mr Joyce were spared the axe, with Resources Minister Matt Canavan and Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion untouched in the reshuffle.

Agriculture and Water Minister David Littleproud, who considered contesting the leadership before withdrawing from the race, retains his cabinet position after a shock promotion last year.

"I thank each of the cabinet team members for their hard work and advocacy in their portfolios and championing the needs of rural and regional Australia," Mr McCormack said.

Mr Chester was a vocal supporter of Mr McCormack after he put his hat in the ring to replace Mr Joyce after he resigned last week.

Speaking before Thursday's announcement, Mr Chester said he had told Mr McCormack he was keen to take on veterans affairs.

"I would love to come back into the ministry if that opportunity presents itself," Mr Chester said.

In a statement, Mr Pitt said it was an honour to return to the ministry to assist Mr McCormack with infrastructure and transport.

"Having worked as an engineer, a tradesperson, a farmer, a small business owner and having lived most of my life in regional Australia, I have a deep appreciation of just how important well planned infrastructure and connectivity is," Mr Pitt said.