Prime Minister Scott Morrison insists Alan Tudge is still 'technically' a member of cabinet, and says despite stepping aside late last year, Mr Tudge is free to return to the role when he is ready.
when Mr Morrison launched an investigation into claims from one of Mr Tudge's former staffers that he was emotionally, and on one occasion physically, abusive.The former staffer, Rachelle Miller, and Mr Tudge had been having a consensual affair at the time of the alleged behaviour.
"[Mr Tudge] has informed me that in the interests of his family and his own well-being and in order to focus on his re-election as the Member for Aston, he is not seeking to return to the front bench, and I support his decision," Mr Morrison said at the time. "He has his portfolio, we have an acting minister in the education portfolio, he is not being paid as a minister."Stuart Robert is currently acting education minister.