Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—Relying on the tweet from Senator Farrell, I am assuming that we are not returning and, on that basis, that we are seeing the end of the 43rd Parliament. I agree with and concur with Senator Wong's comments—other than that I confess I never did seek Senator Crossin's advice on matters, but I found her to be a very worthy senator and opponent and wish her, on behalf of the coalition, all the best for the future.

Can I do the same for my colleague Senator Gary Humphries, who in fact on this occasion is sitting on the front bench. I have no doubt that, if his career had not been curtailed, he would have been sitting on the front bench in due course. To you, Senator Humphries, all the very best.

To Senator Joyce: all the very best with the seat of New England. We wish you well and trust that the people of New England reward your gutsiness in making the move in circumstances where it was anything but certain.

I conclude my remarks by saying a very sincere and heartfelt thanks to all our spouses, significant others and children who put up with this mad life and allow us to serve in the way that we do.

I thank colleagues for their support and especially Senator Brandis, Senator Mitch Fifield, Senator Michaelia Cash, Senator Helen Kroger and the other whips—and also, if I might say so, the managers and whips on the other side—for making this place work.

I thank the Clerk, the Senate staff and the Comcar drivers for the wonderful job they do in supporting us. Can I finish by thanking the parliamentary chaplain, who prays for all of us whether we like it or not. His support around the traps is very much appreciated. I thank the Senate.