Kristina Keneally, who will become the first female Premier of NSW after ousting Nathan Rees in a leadership challenge, says that her victory is "an opportunity for a new beginning".



But in her first press conference as premier-elect tonight, Ms Keneally ruled out a return to Cabinet for Joe Tripodi. She said the door was open for Frank Sartor to return, and that she would be discussing with Mr Rees a future in the government.

Ms Keneally thanked Mr Rees for his hard work and acknowledged that he had had a tough job.

"Today is an opportunity for a new beginning and a time for healing," she said.



As a working mother, Ms Keneally said that she was familiar with the issues that all "working mums" faced.