The Australian federal opposition has undergone a shadow cabinet reshuffle following the dismissal of Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price. Liberal leader Sussan Ley announced the changes on Sunday, aiming to move past a challenging period for the party.

Senator Price was removed from her positions after making controversial comments suggesting that the government favored Indian migrants because they typically vote for the Labor Party. Ley demanded her resignation after Price failed to apologize for her remarks, which were criticized for causing distress within the Indian community in Australia.

In the reshuffle, Melissa Price, a member of the House of Representatives from Western Australia, has been appointed as the new Shadow Minister for Defence Industry and Shadow Minister for Defence Personnel. She takes over these roles from Senator Nampijinpa Price. Ley praised Melissa Price's experience, stating, "As a former Minister in the portfolio, she brings crucial experience to these responsibilities."

Tasmanian Senator Claire Chandler has also been elevated to the shadow ministry, taking on the portfolios of cyber security and science. Ley noted that Chandler has been diligent in addressing national security issues and has a strong passion for her new responsibilities.

Additionally, Simon Kennedy, the MP for Cook, has joined the shadow cabinet in a newly created role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Artificial Intelligence. He will also oversee the portfolios of Digital Economy and Scrutiny of Government Waste.

Richard Colbeck has taken over Chandler's previous role as Senate co-chair of the Liberal legislative committee. Ley also mentioned that Gisele Kapterian, who narrowly lost her bid for the Bradfield seat, could be appointed as a shadow assistant minister if her appeal against the election results is successful.

Senator Nampijinpa Price had previously gained attention as a prominent advocate for the 'No' campaign during the recent Indigenous voice to parliament referendum. She switched from the Nationals to the Liberals earlier this year, expressing ambitions for leadership within the party. Ley has not commented on whether Price might return to the front bench in the future.