Julie Collins appointed new federal housing minister - the sixth in the Labor Government

Tasmanian MP Julie Collins has been promoted to federal cabinet as minister for housing, homelessness and the status of women in the new-look Kevin Rudd ministry.

She is the sixth housing minister in Rudd-Gillard governments, replacing Mark Butler who took over from Brendan O'Connor, from previous ministers being Robert McClelland, Jenny Macklin and Tanya Plibersek.

Ms Collins is one of three women elevated to cabinet in Mr Rudd's latest reshuffle. They bring the total number of women to six, with newcomers Victorians Jacinta Collins (mental health) and Catherine King (regional Australia) joining Senator Penny Wong, Jenny Macklin and Tanya Plibersek.

Ms Collins, who turns 42 on Wednesday, has held the Tasmanian seat of Franklin since 2007. She was previously the minister for community services, indigenous employment and economic development, and the status of women, in the Gillard governments.

"This is a strong team, I am proud to lead this team," Mr Rudd said.