Federal Minister for Small Business Senator Nick Sherry has announced that he will not recontest the next election. Sherry’s resignation came ahead of Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s reshuffling of her cabinet.
Sherry said he has enjoyed the range of responsibilities during his four-year ministerial role. “I have been proud to represent Australia and to have been a minister in successive Labor Governments.”
The reasons for his decided retirement include his long-term involvement in the Senate, his age and his role as a father to three young children.
“I believe it is an appropriate time to step aside well before the next election to allow another member of the Parliamentary Labor Party the opportunity to serve as a minister,” Sherry said.
During more than 21 years in the Senate, Sherry has undertaken roles in primary industry and resources, superannuation and corporate law, assistant treasurer, small business and deregulation.
Sherry will continue as Senator of Tasmania but will not contest pre-selection in 2013.
