On behalf of his Senate colleagues I pay tribute to Senator John Faulkner who has announced today he will not nominate to serve a further term as Labor Senator for New South Wales.
Senator Faulkner has represented the people of New South Wales in the Senate with distinction since 1989.
As a Senator, Shadow Minister, long-serving Senate Leader, and Minister under three Labor Prime Ministers, Senator Faulkner has made an outstanding contribution to the Federal Parliamentary Labor Party, the Parliament and the nation.
Senator Faulkner is a Labor Parliamentarian of integrity, intelligence and insight. His vision, wit, oratory and passion for the cause of Labor are renowned inside and outside the Parliament.
I have been honoured to serve in the Senate alongside Senator Faulkner and like many others I am deeply grateful for the role he has played as Senate Leader, mentor and colleague.
I look forward to working with Senator Faulkner as he continues to serve his current term.