Craig Laundy takes first step into Federal Government as election speculation grows

MP for the Federal seat of Reid Craig Laundy has been given his first entry point into government in Canberra.

PM Malcolm Turnbull has appointed the first-termer Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, an important role for the member who will soon have to fight an election in the most multicultural seat in the State.

Mr Laundy, son of Strathfield resident and prominent businessman Arthur Laundy, has been outspoken on multicultural affairs, and  has developed a strong following in the community for his support of their issues.

He is highly regarded, chairing an important economic committee and regularly consulted by the Liberals on migration and other mutlicultural issues.

Expectations are growing in Canberra that the government is preparing to call an election soon after the May budget.

The Prime Minister has said voters should expect an election in August, September or October, but also that an earlier double dissolution election was a “live option”.

A July double dissolution election would have to be called almost immediately after the budget, with the latest possible date being 16 July. The first possible date for a normal House and half-Senate election is 6 August