BY IAN CROUCH
Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon has announced he's quitting federal politics.
In a statement issued on Monday morning, the 59-year-old says he won't be contesting the next election.
Joel Fitzgibbon has served as the Member for Hunter since 1996, taking over from his father Eric who won the seat in 1984.
He came close to losing the seat at the 2019 election, suffering a 14 per cent swing against him, amid concerns from coal miners about a perceived lack of support by Federal Labor for the mining industry.
He's been an outspoken critic of the ALP since then over it's climate change and energy polices, quitting as Shadow Agriculture Minister 10 months ago and returning to the backbench.
He says, he feels the time is right to call it a day and is confident the ALP can retain the seat at the next election with a new candidate.
Joel Fitzgibbon says he's confident Labor Leader, Anthony Albanese has returned the party to a more central political position.
"Yes, I believe the Labor party has learnt from the mistakes of 2019 and the periods leading up to it. We have moved back to the centre ground - Anthony Albanese has made his support for the coal and gas industries very very clear, all of our resource sector and exports. and of course, if Labor focuseson the things that matter to people most then we will win the next election," he said.
While no official announcement has been made about his replacement, there's speculation several unions are backing registered nurse, Emily Suvaal, the wife of Cessnock Councillor, Jay Suvaal, for pre-selection.
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Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon
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