By Mikayla van Loon
Federal member for Casey Tony Smith has just announced today 14 July he will be standing down at the end of this term after 20 years in parliament.
“After a great deal of thought and consideration, I have decided that this term as a member of the House of Representatives will be my last,” Mr Smith said in a statement.
Mr Smith was first elected 20 years ago and was re-elected six times making him the longest serving member for Casey.
“I love our parliament and serving the Australian people. I am honoured that the Liberal Party and the electors of Casey voted to give me this privilege for two decades,” he said.
“However, I believe now is a good time to give the Liberal Party and the people of Casey the opportunity for renewal.
“I also believe the time is now right for me to pursue other endeavours following the conclusion of this forty-sixth Parliament.”
Mr Smith said by announcing his decision now, it gives the Liberal party time to choose the a candidate to run in the next election.
