The Minister for Financial Services and Member for Whitlam, Stephen Jones, has announced that he will not seek re-election after serving 15 years as a Labor MP. Although he did not specify the reasons for his decision to step down just days before Parliament’s 2025 session begins, he expressed gratitude to his community for their trust in him since 2010. Jones acknowledged the support of the Australian Labor Party and highlighted his pride in significant initiatives, such as the same-sex marriage plebiscite and gambling reform. He expressed appreciation for his collaboration with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, describing it as a rewarding journey.
Jones emphasised the need for a representative who will advocate for the community’s interests, adding that he is confident Labor will select a suitable candidate. Treasurer Jim Chalmers praised Jones as an exceptional colleague, noting that his resignation contributes to a trend of departures within the Labor government as the federal election approaches. This announcement follows a recent reshuffle by Albanese after former NDIS Minister Bill Shorten exited politics. Jones, who entered the House of Representatives in 2010, came from a background as a disability and support worker and worked as a lawyer for the Australian Council of Trade Unions.