Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Hansard source

I'm going to take this opportunity—a rare opportunity from the chair—to make some comments following Senator Sinodinos's valedictory speech. I'd like to reiterate everything Senator Cormann said on behalf of the government and the Liberal Party, and add a few of my own observations from working so closely with Arthur.

For those of us who remember the years before 1996 and the early days of the Howard government—even at a very young level—Arthur is a giant. He took over his role as chief of staff there in difficult days. He mentioned his offsider, Tony Nutt. They formed a duo that is probably the best political staffing combination that this building has seen. Arthur was always present for key decisions, rarely sought attention and rarely sought credit but was always integral to so many of the successes of that government.

But I'd like to talk about Arthur the person. Arthur's capability and the confidence he inspired in people was demonstrated by the address he just gave, one that not many of us could necessarily make upon our valedictory. Working with Arthur was always one of learning the importance of politeness, of being open-minded and of humility, and how that can inspire confidence in people around you and in the people who work for you. The inflamed rhetoric that occasionally takes over modern politics is not for Arthur; it is always the reason, the idea and treating people well.

I was privileged to serve as parliamentary secretary. It was actually a job I requested at the time. We shared a lot. I gained a lot more than I think I contributed, and I learned a great deal by working with him. He's always been open to ideas. He's always been offering very helpful advice, including to some of us who might be occasionally young and impulsive or a little bit passionate about things. But the advice and the way in which he worked with others is an exemplar to all of us in this building.

Arthur and I also shared some health challenges at around a similar time. Mine was serious but not as challenging or as critical as Arthur's. The way he kept in contact with me and the way he came through that is a testament to the character of the person. The speech Arthur just gave encapsulates what drove so many of us into politics in the 1990s and what we aspired to do—the values, the commitment to open minds, the commitment to the greater good and, most importantly, the commitment to share and ensure that others enjoy the opportunities that he so proudly outlines he has had. Arthur's departure is a loss to this parliament but, proudly, not a loss to the people of Australia through the office he is going to serve now at a very important time. We are fortunate to have worked together, I am fortunate to have worked with him and I am fortunate to call him a friend.