The Prime Minister is likely to announce a new federal health minister today, with Industry Minister Greg Hunt a front-runner for the role after the resignation of Sussan Ley.

Key points: Malcolm Turnbull called Greg Hunt late yesterday

Malcolm Turnbull called Greg Hunt late yesterday Arthur Sinodinos is expected to take on the industry portfolio

Arthur Sinodinos is expected to take on the industry portfolio Opposition health spokeswoman says Mr Hunt won't "be up to the task"

The ABC's AM program believes Mr Hunt has been chosen for the politically important position, with Malcolm Turnbull calling him late yesterday.

Cabinet Minister Arthur Sinodinos, who was considered to be a contender, is now expected to take on the industry portfolio.

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Mr Hunt was the environment minister for three years, and has been Industry Minister for six months — since the election.

The Victorian Liberal MP was elected to Parliament in 2001.

One Cabinet minister who spoke to AM described Mr Hunt as having "analytical capability" and being "a proven media performer", pointing out it is an advantage that he is a Member of the Lower House, rather than leaving the Turnbull Government politically exposed with a health minister in the Senate.

Opposition health spokeswoman Catherine King was disparaging about Mr Hunt.

"I don't think this Minister will really be up to the task," she said.

"They may have changed the salesperson, but they haven't changed the message.

"They are continuing their attacks on GPs, they are continuing their cuts to public hospitals, continuing their cuts to dental programs."