New NSW Premier Nathan Rees has outlined his plans just three hours after accepting the top job, saying he's going to have a “red hot go” at fixing the problems of the state.
An emotional Mr Rees has been joined by his new deputy Carmel Tebbutt in his first appearance as premier, having just been sworn in by the Lieutenant Governor following an historic day in NSW Parliament, which saw the resignation of the state’s 40th premier, Morris Iemma.
Mr Iemma quit during a partyroom meeting this morning after his new-look frontbench failed to win the support of his colleagues.
It included the loss of treasurer Michael Costa, whom Mr Rees has confirmed will not be making a return.
The Premier has outlined his top three challenges: the state’s economy, service delivery and the restoration of public confidence in the government.
Mr Rees praised outgoing Mr Iemma for his integrity and courage, insisting Mr Iemma was not pushed out of the job.
"He's a man of extraordinary decency, integrity and honour, and his actions today in resigning the premiership of NSW demonstrate he's also a man of enormous courage," he said.
But he insisted that the days of spin-doctoring are over and acknowledged that the previous administration had left NSW with its share of problems.
"You know those challenges as well as I do," he said.
"Today, we start work on fixing those issues. Those issues that go directly to people's lives, that impact on their lives, in their homes, their streets and their communities and their schools."
Mr Rees said he would work to restore public confidence in the administration of NSW.
"On occasions, the administration has let you down," he told the people of NSW.
"You are right to feel frustrated, you are right to feel annoyed, you are right to feel disappointed.
"On occasions, you are right to feel angry.
"On that basis that I say this to you: we need real change, and that real change starts today."
"Until March 2011, every waking hour that I have, I will be giving you the effort you deserve," he said.
"I will be having a red-hot go at fixing the problems in NSW and giving you the services and the standard of services that you, as taxpayers, are entitled to.
"You have that commitment from me, and you will get that commitment from my team when it is finalised early next week.
The new Premier appeared overcome with emotion when speaking about his fiancée, Stacey, the pair is due to marry late this year.
Video: Richard Maxton