The electorate of Whitlam will have a new sitting member this year after Stephen Jones announced his retirement this morning.
Jones will vacate his seat in parliament, as well as his position as minister for financial services and assistant treasurer when the upcoming federal election comes around
He has spent the past 15 years as a politician, having won five elections, becoming the last Member for Throsby and the first Member for Whitlam.
Born and raised in the Illawarra region, Jones served as the Secretary of Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) where he advocated for fair wages and greater job security before becoming a politician.
During his Parliamentary career, Stephen served in various capacities, including as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Health, Shadow Minister for Regional Communications and Shadow Minister for Financial Services.
Well wishes have come in from both sides of local politics today.
“I want to thank Stephen for his friendship and the support that he has given me during my first term, and for the dedication he has shown for our region during his time in public office. We will miss his presence greatly in the Illawarra and we wish Stephen, Brooke, Jess and Paddy all the best in their future endeavours.” Labor Federal Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes said.
“On behalf of our community, I take this opportunity to thank Stephen Jones, Member for Whitlam, for his service to our community. While Stephen and I have different views on many things, we have always worked together in the service of our mutual constituents. I wish him well in the next chapter of his life.” Independent Kiama MP Gareth Ward said.
