Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to Indigenous Minister and Barton MP Linda Burney after she announced she would step back from politics.
He has also acknowledged fellow Labor MP for Gorton and Skills and Training Minister Brendan O'Connor, who announced his impending departure from politics.
Both will retire at the next election and will step down as ministers.
Mr. Albanese praised Ms. Burney for her passion and empathy and for being a wonderful friend.
“Linda’s life is a remarkable story of firsts. Both in her personal life and in the New South Wales and federal parliaments,” he said in a statement.
“As the first Indigenous woman to serve as Minister for Indigenous Australians, she has achieved so much.
“From a historic investment in remote housing to delivering on Indigenous Rangers, justice reinvestment and remote training and producing a plan for real jobs and wages in remote communities.”
The Prime Minister said Ms. Burney’s imprint on Australian politics would leave a lasting impression.
Mr. Albanese also credited Mr. O'Connor with creating hundreds of fee-free TAFE places and changing lives through his work.
“Most importantly, he’s given so many Australians the new skills and self-confidence to find a job they love,” he said.
“You could not ask for a better colleague than Brendan O’Connor, and you will not find a more decent human being.”
Ms. Burney took to social media to talk about her departure.
“After 21 years in politics, eight years in the federal parliament, and 13 years in the New South Wales (NSW) parliament, it’s time for me to pass the baton on to the next generation,” she said.
“Kindness, grace, resilience, and integrity are the values that have driven me over the years.
“I was the first Indigenous person elected to the NSW Parliament, the first Indigenous woman elected to the House of Representatives, and the first Indigenous woman appointed a cabinet minister.”
Ms Burney, who was instrumental in the failed “voice” referendum, will remain a member of Barton until the next election.
“It’s been one heck of a journey; I loved every minute of it,” she said.
New ministers will be appointed on July 28 with a full cabinet reshuffle imminent for Labor.
The pair’s departure will trigger the first cabinet reshuffle since Mr. Albanese formed the government.
Labor’s caucus is expected to nominate MPs for promotion, but Mr. Albanese will make the final decision on portfolios.
New ministerial portfolios will be assigned by July 29.
