Greens senator Rachel Siewert will retire from politics at the next election, telling party members it was time for someone else to take up the mantle.
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The West Australian senator was first elected in 2004. Her time in politics will be remembered for fierce campaigns, particularly on social justice issues, having been one of the first MPs to raise the alarm on robodebt.
"Being a senator has given me some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life," she said in a statement.
Senator Siewert said she had worked with Greens across the country on climate change, among other issues.
"We are often the only ones on the side of the chamber prepared to protect the environment, join in solidarity with First Nations peoples, support refugees and demand decency for people accessing income support," she said.
An election is due in 2022, but there have been rumours Prime Minister Scott Morrison may send voters to the polls in 2021, and the Greens are starting their preselection process in WA.
"The work is never over. It is clear that the Greens are needed more than ever in Parliament and in the community, but it is time for someone else to continue our vital work in this role," Senator Siewert said.
The Greens have one other senator from WA, Jordon Steele-John, but his term is not set to expire until 2025.
Senator Siewert's announcement follows the retirement this week of former Greens leader Richard Di Natale, who is set to be replaced in the Senate by Lidia Thorpe.
Sally Whyte
I report on a range of issues in federal politics and the public service, with a real passion for how decisions made in Canberra affect the lives of Australians.
I report on a range of issues in federal politics and the public service, with a real passion for how decisions made in Canberra affect the lives of Australians.
