As well as retaining the IT portfolio, Coonan was promoted to the role of deputy leader of the Senate under Finance Minister Nick Minchin.

This makes Coonan part of the government's leadership team in the parliament.

Coonan will also be working closely with the new Special Minister of State, Gary Nairn, who has replaced Eric Abetz.

As part of his new appointment, Nairn will oversee technology spending and government procurement strategies.

Australian Computer Society (ACS) president Philip Argy welcomed the reshuffle claiming Coonan was an "impressive and conscientious representative for the IT industry with a genuine feel for the portfolio.