Anthony Byrne’s decision to not stand as a candidate at the forthcoming election means that Parliament will be losing one of its truly dedicated servants.

During his more than two decades as the Member for Holt, he has served his constituents – and more broadly, the Australian people – with energy and devotion, guided every step of the way by Labor values and his love for our country.

It is a love that has been demonstrated with particular power in his work in national security, most notably during his 11 years as Chair and then Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee of Intelligence. In these roles, he has understood just how much is at stake and worked hard to keep our approach to national security firmly bipartisan.

As he prepares to conclude his parliamentary career, Anthony speaks of owing the Australian Labor Party “a debt of gratitude and love”. The debt is mutual.

I thank Anthony for all he has done and wish him the best for life’s next chapter.