July 25th 2024.
After years of dedicated service, Labor ministers Linda Burney and Brendan O'Connor have announced their retirement from politics. Both Burney, who serves as the Minister for Indigenous Australians, and O'Connor, who is the Skills and Training Minister, will not be seeking re-election. This news also means that they will be stepping down from their positions in cabinet, which will prompt a reshuffle of the ministry.
The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, is expected to announce the new ministry line-up in Canberra on Sunday. Burney has had a long and impressive political career, beginning with her election to the NSW Parliament, where she served for over a decade. In 2016, she made history as the first Aboriginal woman to be elected to the Federal House of Representatives, winning the Sydney seat of Barton.
Similarly, O'Connor has been a member of parliament since 2001 and has served as a minister in three Labor governments. The announcement of their retirement has prompted Albanese to pay tribute to their hard work and dedication. He stated that both Burney and O'Connor have made outstanding contributions to the government and the country, and he is proud to call them his friends.
Albanese also spoke highly of O'Connor, describing him as a decent human being with sound judgement. He expressed his gratitude for O'Connor's friendship and the valuable advice he has provided over the years, not just in his portfolio but on a range of issues. Similarly, he praised Burney's warmth and courage, stating that those who have the honor of calling her a friend understand the strength behind her grace.
Despite facing setbacks, such as the rejection of the Voice to Parliament last year, Burney has continued to be a strong advocate for First Nations People. Albanese believes that their retirements will provide the opportunity for a cabinet refresh, and nominations for frontbench positions will soon be called for.
In their retirement speeches, both Burney and O'Connor expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have had in their political careers. O'Connor, in particular, stated that he could have never dreamed of such a fortunate career, but now it is time for him to step down and spend more time with his family.
Albanese also thanked O'Connor for his dedication to the job, especially during a time of personal tragedy when his wife passed away in 2018. He commended O'Connor for his decision to continue making a contribution to the country, despite the difficult circumstances.
Similarly, Burney stated that she is looking forward to spending more time with her loved ones and pursuing other passions. She expressed pride in the difference she has made for First Nations people and the whole country. Despite facing challenges in her personal life, she believes she has approached them with kindness, grace, resilience, intelligence, and integrity.
Lastly, Burney acknowledged that the outcome of the Voice referendum may not have been what they had hoped for, but she believes history will treat it kindly. She concluded her speech by saying that she gave her all in the pursuit of closing the gap and advancing reconciliation. As she passes on the baton to the next generation, she hopes to continue making a positive impact in other ways.
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