Who is the Minister of Defence?

• A. Senator Penny Wong
• B. Senator Linda Reynolds
• C. Senator Marise Payne
• D. Senator Nick Xenophon

Answer: (B)

This item tests who held the Defence portfolio in the Australian government. The Minister for Defence is the senior government official who leads the Department of Defence, shaping defence policy, overseeing the armed forces, and managing the defence budget.

Senator Linda Reynolds held the position of Minister for Defence from 2019 to 2022 under Prime Minister Scott Morrison, making her the correct choice for this period. Her responsibilities included guiding defence policy, oversight of defence procurement, and ensuring military readiness during her tenure.

The other names are associated with different roles: Penny Wong is the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Marise Payne has served in foreign affairs roles as well, and Nick Xenophon has not held the Defence portfolio.