Labor frontbencher Ed Husic will quit the frontbench to make room in the ministry for his colleague Kristina Keneally.

Senator Keneally had wanted the position of deputy Senate leader but lacked factional support, leading to criticism new leader Anthony Albanese would struggle to have enough women in senior positions.

Mr Albanese said on Wednesday morning he wanted to see Senator Keneally on his frontbench, which is expected to be announced at the weekend or early next week.

Kristina Keneally is set to be promoted to the Labor frontbench. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

"I'm making it very clear, as the leader of the Labor Party, that I want the best team - the best team includes Kristina Keneally," Mr Albanese told reporters at Parliament House.