A long-standing Gold Coast MP has declared the time is right for him to step back from politics.
Burleigh MP Michael Hart announced on social media overnight that he will be retiring at the next election, which is set down for October 2024.
After 11 years of service to Burleigh locals, Mr Hart said he felt it was time to “pursue new interests and spend more time with my family”.
“Serving as the LNP State Member for Burleigh has been a profound privilege and great honour,” he said.
“I’m not one for seeking publicity, but I’m proud to have always taken up the fight and deliver for our community – whether for local infrastructure improvements, resources for our schools, supporting local businesses and jobs or preserving our beautiful coastline.
“I have full confidence in the bright future of our community especially with David Crisafulli leading the LNP team to Government at the next election,” he continued.
“Our community and Queensland deserves the genuine change David is offering at a time the chaos and crisis of Labor is affecting every corner of our lives.
“To the Burleigh community, thank you for the trust you have placed in me.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to you for entrusting me with the responsibility of representing our community in the Queensland Parliament. It has been an incredible journey, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together.
“It is a tremendous privilege to serve as your Member of Parliament and I will continue to work hard right up until the next election because we still have so much more to do.”
Mr Hart has held the seat of Burleigh since 2012.
