Former Labor leader Bill Shorten retires from politics

After nearly two decades in Parliament, former Labor leader Bill Shorten has announced his retirement from politics.

During a press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday, September 5, Shorten reflected on his career and shared his plans for the future.

“I have decided not to seek a 7^th term in Parliament,” Shorten said in a statement.

“Thirty years ago, I joined the Australian Workers’ Union, driven by the belief that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential.

“That’s what fair wages, safe workplaces and decent conditions are all about – recognising the merit and worth and dignity of every individual.

“That’s the same principle that brought me to Parliament in 2007.

“What matters is whether we leave the place better than we found it.

“That’s the challenge I’ve always been up for – and it’s why I’m proud to serve in this Government.

“I genuinely consider myself one of the luckiest people in politics.

“I’ve experienced some extraordinary highs in the last 17 years. And let’s face it, some pretty difficult lows.

“But there is not a single day I would hand back. Because – every day – I know how lucky I have been to have had the chance to serve.

“I’ve gratefully accepted the Prime Minister’s request that I remain serving in the Cabinet and continue to deliver on our first term reform agenda for the NDIS and Government Services.

“And I’m thankful to be leaving Parliament while there are still people who want me to stay and while I still feel have more to give: to this great country and the remarkable people who call it home.”

My friend Bill Shorten has decided not to contest the next election.

In this term, and right through his 17 years in Parliament, he has given it everything, every day.

Only 21 people have had the extraordinary privilege of serving as Leader of Australia’s oldest political… pic.twitter.com/kjf8wxMYk5

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) September 5, 2024

Shorten led the Australian Labor Party from 2013 to 2019 and has served as the MP for the Melbourne electorate of Maribyrnong since 2007.

He was appointed to the ministry during Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard’s government, before winning the role of opposition leader.

But when the Liberal Party secured victory in the 2019 election, Shorten stepped back and Albanese took on the role.

He returned to cabinet as the National Disability Insurance Scheme and government services minister after Labor won the 2022 federal election.

In announcing Shorten’s resignation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to his distinguished political career.

“He united the party, he re-energised the caucus, he saw off two prime ministers, and he rebuilt Labor into a strong opposition and a genuine alternative government,” he told reporters in Canberra.

“Through his years as leader, no one worked harder than Bill.

“No one brought more energy, enthusiasm, ideas and ambition to advocating for the need for a Labor government.”

Shorten will remain in his position until his departure in February next year, after which he will take on the role of Vice Chancellor at the University of Canberra.

-with AAP.