NSW Liberal Leader Peter Debnam today announced a Shadow Cabinet reshuffle to put a focus on rescuing the NSW economy and public transport.

"With NSW heading towards recession, Deputy Leader Barry O'Farrell has been appointed Shadow Treasurer and will work closely with me on an economic rescue plan, as well as implementation of our policies and commitments through the preparation of our first budget next year," Mr Debnam said.

"Despite Labor Government spin, transport remains a key issue of concern to people of NSW," he said.

"Gladys Berejiklian has been highly effective in Mental Health and Community Services, demonstrated by the substantial mental health policy package announced recently.

"Gladys has been promoted to the Transport portfolio so she can champion the needs of commuters as effectively as she championed the needs of the mentally ill.

"The lack of infrastructure in North Western and South Western Sydney and the Central Coast is a major concern and is closely related to the issues surrounding new housing in those regions.

"Greg Pearce has been appointed Shadow Minister for Housing in addition to his existing Infrastructure responsibilities to ensure a strong focus on the links between the provision of infrastructure and housing. He also takes on Commerce.

"The recent tragic events on our roads have exposed the Iemma-Costa Government's failure on road safety over 12 years.

"John Turner has been appointed Shadow Minister for Road Safety to highlight the NSW Liberal/Nationals' determination to improve road safety and save lives on NSW roads after an alarming rise in the road toll, particularly among young drivers. John brings four years of experience in the Roads portfolio to concentrate on safety.

"Leader of The Nationals Andrew Stoner will concentrate on Water and Roads Infrastructure, where he has proven extremely effective in holding the Labor Government to account on its 12-year failure to plan for the water crisis and improved road infrastructure.

"Bega MP Andrew Constance is promoted into Shadow Cabinet in recognition of his ability and effectiveness in representing the people of South Eastern NSW. He brings enthusiasm and a determination to make a difference to people in need and has been appointed Shadow for Minister for Disability Services and Ageing.

"In sharp contrast with the city-focused Iemma-Costa Labor Government, Andrew's appointment also increases the representation from rural and regional NSW to well over half the Shadow Cabinet.

"As a former nurse and medical professional, Judy Hopwood has worked closely with Jillian Skinner to develop a range of NSW Liberal/Nationals Health policies.

"Judy has been appointed Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Community Services where her background and experience will ensure the NSW Liberal/Nationals continues to set the agenda in these key policy areas.

"Greg Aplin moves to Justice and Emergency Services where he will focus on the failures in the parole system and bushfire preparedness.

"Catherine Cusack adds Youth Affairs to her Juvenile Justice and Women responsibilities.

"I have retained John Ryan and Andrew Humpherson as Parliamentary Secretaries in recognition of their experience and commitment over many years. Both will continue to make a valuable contribution.

"In addition, I have appointed South Coast MP Shelley Hancock as Parliamentary Secretary for Transport.

"In this role Shelley will work closely with Gladys Berejiklian to champion the needs of commuters who live outside Sydney and are forced to bear the brunt of Labor's transport failures every day.

"People who rely on the public transport system to travel long distances to get to and from work each day have borne the brunt of Labor's cuts to rail services and extended travel times robbing them of valuable family time.

"In recognition on her hard work and focus, Robyn Parker adds Health to her Parliamentary Secretary role in Education.

"This is the team that I will take to the 2007 election and will form the nucleus of the NSW Liberal/Nationals Cabinet.

"After 12 years of Labor, the Iemma-Costa Government is rotten and it's time for a change," Mr Debnam said.